To access any archived recordings or slides, please reference the below, then email the office, with the dates and title of audio recording or slides requested.
30 December 2017. Biblical Canon and Resolution Statistics – JLD. Draw me close to You, and never let me go. In 2018, help me find a way, to bring my life back to God’s will. After beautiful praise and worship, Watchman Alexander closed out Genesis with Vayechi, He Lived, Genesis 47:28 – 50:26. Jacob died at the age of 147, despite Genesis 6:3 saying men would not live past 120 years. Extra biblical books (Jasher), and source texts (Septuagint) help clarify. Then after praise reports of new jobs and prayer for health, Rabbi Jonathan recapped our three most enjoyed podcasts of 2017; (1) Looking Forward and Politics, (2) Perils and Messianic Judaism, and (3) Commandments and Exorcism. Finally, if you are making new years resolutions, remember the three things we said that will help you not be part of the 33% who fail in January, or 90% of fail balance of year.
23 December 2017. Let It Go and The Door – JLD. Death could not hold You, the veil tore before You, and Yours is the name above all Names. Yeshua (Jesus) is a powerful name, and You are Messiah (Christ) our King. With Rabbi Jonathan out, Pastor Duane covered Vayigash, And He Came Near, Genesis 44:18 – 47:27. Joseph’s family learned he was alive, and his dreams came true, in this parsha. If you live in fear or dismay from your sins, confess, and if you are angered by sinners, let it go, as did Joseph. Praise reports were for sponsors and prayer was for provisions, then Watchman Alexander went back to the basics. After accepting Yeshua (Jesus), it would not be wise to traitorously reject Him. Yeshua is the only door that leads to eternal life, and your salvation with Him is fluid, so guard it closely. Lastly, 30 Dec. is monthly oneg, so make sure to bring a dish.
16 December 2017. Taking Responsibility and Israel – JLD. Chanukah is an excellent time for me to remember this little light of mine, and how I should let it shine. All in my house, and everywhere I go, may His radiance be seen in me. Rabbi Jonathan covered Miketz, At The End, Genesis 41:1 – 44:7. Joseph was 30 when Pharaoh made him second in charge of Egypt, Joseph took Simeon hostage when his brothers visited, and Joseph planted a cup in his brothers’ bag. Yet the brothers did not blame (un)forgiveness or famine on their distress; they blamed themselves. Praise reports included bonus checks, and we prayed for wisdom, after which Hanoch Young, an Orthodox Jew with Kol Yehuda, spoke about Israel, Judah, and Ephraim. Lastly, thank you Gov. Greg Abbott, Rep. Tony Dale, Rep. Terry Wilson, Jeff Johnson, and Rev. Kurt Hein for enjoying Chanukah with us.
09 December 2017. Messianic Parsha and Chanukah Celebration – JLD. Our God is the Lion, the Lion of Judah. He’s roaring with power, and fighting our battles. Our God is also the Lamb, the Lamb that was slain, and His blood breaks the chains. Bow before the Lion and the Lamb. In the parsha, Brother Adam covered Vayeshev, He Settled, Genesis 37:1 – 40:23. Both Joseph and Jesus were beloved, hated, sold for silver, and tempted, yet did not sin. Recognizing the Messianic connections in this parsha, and your life, can help take you from prison, to the palace. After praises of being given a non-profit, and prayer for our babysitter, Rabbi Jonathan got us into the holiday spirit. Jesus taught in the Temple during Chanukah, and if He observed it, so will we. Plus Chanukah is much more kosher than Christmas, so see you at our 4thAnnual Lighting. Lastly, Brother Mel’s pre-service Investment teaching is attached.
02 December 2017. Dinah and Addressing Sexual Assault – JLD. There is nothing too dirty, that God’s can’t make worthy because He washes us in mercy, and makes us clean. Amen. In the torah portion, Chris covered Vayishlach, He Sent, Genesis 32:3 – 36:43. This is the section where Jacob wrestles with God, Dinah is defiled, God changes Jacob’s name to Israel, and Isaac dies. Three principles themes are God keeping His promises, our being able to overcome adversity, and God loving unity. Then after praise reports of safety, and prayer requests for deliverance, Rabbi Jonathan spoke about the fallout from Harvey Weinstein’s initial sexual assault allegation. 34 high profile men have since been accused, and we discussed things we can do to prevent assault in our community. Lastly, here is Mel’s pre-service teaching on Budgeting, and 09 Dec at 01:30pm Mel will talk Investing.
25 November 2017. Fourth Year Anniversary Service – JLD. Holy. Holy. Holy, is the Lord God Almighty. He is Who was, and is, and is to come. With all creation, let us sing praises to the King of kings. In the torah portion, one of our Shabbat School Teachers, Christina Velez, spoke to the children about Veyetze, He Went Out, Genesis 28:10 – 32:2. There is a point made in this section, which God reiterates through scripture; God’s promises will prevail because God will always be there, and nothing is too big for God. Praise reports were for sweet fellowship, and we prayed for emotional peace, after which Rabbi Jonathan spoke about the history of Messiah Echad. After receiving the word “grow”, Jonathan found his way to Texas in 2013, and then God said “you”, to plant a church. Wow, but indeed, God has blessed Messiah Echad the past four years. Amen.
18 November 2017. Esau, Jacob, and Community Service – JLD. Despite whatever happens in life, during praise and worship, or in our dealings with people, we can stop and shout HalleluYah, because our Holy and Worthy Lord God Almighty reigns! After getting an earful of feedback, Rabbi Jonathan was reenergized by that Almighty God we worship, and then summarized Parsha Toldot, Generations, Genesis 25:19 – 28:9. Isaac, son of Abraham, fathered Esau and Jacob, but through who did the Abrahamic Covenant and Blessings flow? Esau was too short term thinking, unrepentant, and addicted to sin to be blessed. Don’t be like Esau. Then after praise of academic excellence and payer for our families, Councilwoman Val Nicholson encouraged us to be involved in our community. Find your “tribe”, consider how you can serve, and know that you can make a difference.
11 November 2017. Looking Forward and Politics – JLD. When did we forget that You have always been the King of the World? Instead of making You so small God, may we always remember that You set everything in motion. In the parsha, Watchman Alexander covered Chayei Sarah, from Genesis 23:1 – 25:18. One focus was the faith Rebekah had to leave her family and trust God’s plan for her life. Do you have faith like Rebekah? And after making the decision to follow God, do you look back? Praise reports included finding favor, and we prayed for mountains to be removed, then Rabbi Jonathan reflected on his time at the Messianic Leadership Roundtable with Jewish Voice. It is time to pass the baton, embrace non-jewish members, and discuss how our faith should lead our politics. Lastly, does God want us to be Liberal or Conservative? Listen to find out.
04 November 2017. Waiting, Gossip, and Confrontation – JLD. Praise and Worship was especially sweet, with Brother Caleb on the Trumpet. As we go about our daily lives in this world, let us never cease singing praises about Your Name. Truly Your Name is great, and greatly to be praised. Pastor Duane covered torah portion “He Appeared” from Genesis 18:1 – 22:24, where we see God patiently waiting for our sacrifice, and all we need to do is rush to Him. Also in this section is Lot’s daughters getting him drunk, then incest occurring… mind drunkenness! Praise reports included friends and family getting blessed, after which Rabbi Jonathan spoke briefly about his journey into cycling with Project Hero. Then the short sermon was about how to avoid gossip, by confronting an offending brother or sister, in the manner outlined in scripture. Let us follow the Word.
28 October 2017. Lech Lecha and Halloween – JLD. I have tasted and seen, of the sweetest of loves, where my heart becomes free, and my shame is undone. It is Your presence Lord, and Your Holy Spirit is welcome here. In the Torah Portion, Brother Phillip covered Lech Lecha, Go Forth, Genesis 12:1 – 17:27. With a few connections made to the non-canonized, secondary resource of Jasher (ref. Joshua 10:13 and 2 Samuel 1:18), the focus in this portion was on heeding our leaders, and fleeing strife. Praise reports were powerful, and prayer was strong, after which Rabbi Jonathan spoke on the third part of our mission and vision. If you love Messiah, you will keep His Word… do you love Him enough to follow the commandments? And please, while the darkness of Halloween is being celebrated, remember we need to be lights, and not of this world.
21 October 2017. Spiritual Rebirth and Peace – JLD. We don’t know about you, but falling in love with our Messiah Jesus, was the best thing we have ever done. In His arms, we are never disconnected, and there is no place we would rather be. Our praise and worship team did beautifully, along with the guest woodwind, brass, and vocal additions. Brother Adam brought forth Noach, from Genesis 6:9 – 11:32, which showed what it means to find favor in the eyes of the Lord. When we come into Torah (the Word), we become like the ark of Noah, and something special comes to dwell within us. Further it took 40 days to re-start mankind, and with the Torah in our heart now, heed it. Praise reports came all the way from Norway, and we prayed for medical healings, after which Pastor Duane spoke about peace amidst the storm, and gave us four ways to claim peace.
14 October 2017 – The Creation and Kingdom Life – JLD. The praise and worship at Messiah Echad is so powerful. Indeed, we are made new because of Yeshua (Jesus). Thank You Lord for calling us over, and holding our heads up. Rabbi Jonathan was honored to open our torah portion cycle with Bereshit, In the Beginning, Genesis 1:1 – 6:8. We noted how God created light before the Sun, but the creation of the Sun, Moon, and Stars soon followed, to demark times and seasons. Yet a few decades and generations later, God regretted the creation. So like Noah, let us flea wickedness, and find favor. Praise reports included free a transmission, and we prayed for job stability, after which Watchman Alexander spoke about our responsibility. We should spend our days bringing people to God, and that earthly effort will earn us heavenly rewards. The Watchman’s website is http://www.watchmanalexander.comand the slides are ZZZ.
07 October 2017 – Lulav, Etrog, and Sukkot – JLD. In the audio recording for this week, we did not include a song from the praise and worship set, and there is no torah portion, so this should be a fun, quick listen. Praise reports and prayer requests were powerful, as was Rabbi Jonathan teaching on Sukkot. Christians are grafted to Israel, and become heirs of the blessings, but also the stipulations to the inheritance. Further, Christians do not replace Jewish people. So let our Jewish and Christian listeners celebrate Sukkot, forever and together. As you are able, abstain from ordinary work on the first and eight day, enjoy the offerings we give to God, assemble the four species, and remember that God made the people of Israel dwell in booths after He delivered them. And the Shabbat Slides are http://messiahechad.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/07-Oct-2017-Slides.pdf. Lastly, here is the teaching from Rabbi Moreno at Sukkot – http://messiahechad.org/blog/09-oct-2017-b7m/.
30 September 2017 – Blessings and Yom Kippur – JLD. As we finish reflecting on this past year, remember to periodically bow your knee to the only Name that has power to break every chain of sin in your life. Yeshua, Jesus, our Messiah! In the torah portion, Brother Chris covered V’Zot HaBerachah, And This Is The Blessings, Deuteronomy 33:1 – 34:12. The blessings include Judah being like a lion, Levi judging people, and Asher receiving favor, but the tribes were also blessed as one, just as we are to be one, in Messiah. Praise reports and prayer requests were powerful as always, after which Rabbi Jonathan led the Yom Kippur portion of our services. The Commandments from God are to abstain from work, afflict your soul, and make an offering. Please do this, confess your sins one to another, forgive, embrace salvation in Yeshua, and then set your eyes on Sukkot.
23 September 2017 – Rosh Hashanah, Shabbat Shuvah – JLD. If you missed our Tashlich Service last Wednesday, here is the audio recording http://messiahechad.org/blog/20-sept-2017-f1t/. On Shabbat Shuvah, we remembered that in 3BC, Virgo was clothed with the sun, the moon was at her feet, and a crown of 12 stars was over her head, then Yeshua came to the world. And we know, He is coming again! Next, Pastor Harry summarized Haazinu, Listen, from Deuteronomy 32:1-52, where Moses spoke the Ha’azinu Hashamayim. God brought Israel from slavery, sustained them, and wants us today to similarly be blessed. Lastly, after praise reports of cancers removed, and prayer requests for more healing, Rabbi Jonathan spoke about the Lord’s Feasts, which we should all observe. Especially during the Days of Awe, consider your deeds, and focus on the fruit. L’Shana Tova.
16 September 2017 – Blessings, Curses, and Repentance – JLD. In the presence of the Lord, both your troubles and your enemies, will vanish. Seek to be in His presence, especially as we approach the High Holy Days! In the torah, Watchman Alexander, who records engaging podcasts, covered Standing and He Went, Deuteronomy 29:9 – 31:30. Moses reiterated the blessings from obedience, and curses from sin, so please teshuva (return) from sin, and circumcise your heart. After praise reports from spinning out, and prayer requests for cancer, Reverend Kurt Hein from Light of Christspoke on how sin misguides our priorities, but confession fixes it, and that is what he seeks with the GCRI. Lastly, on Sunday, Rabbi Jonathan guest taught on how racism touched him personally at the Georgetown Country Club, but God often works His plan, through adversity. Amen.
09 September 2017. Hurricanes and Confederate Monuments – JLD. As we continue in prayer for a nation facing earthquakes, fires, hurricanes and more, we rallied around every fear having no place, and the weak find strength, at the sound of Your Great Name. Pastor Harry covered When You Come In (Ki Tavo), Deuteronomy 26:1 – 29:8, which detail the blessings and curses at stake, when nations follow or disobey commandments. Let us turn back to God, so others will be awe of us, we will overflow with prosperity, and we will become the head again. Then after financial praise reports, and prayer for our nation, Rabbi Jonathan spoke about how Yeshua (Jesus) viewed the traditions and topics of the High Holy Days. Lastly, just as Yeshua was not afraid to confront controversy, we courageously talked about how He might view confederate monuments, and racism.
02 September 2017. Loving Others and Loving God – JLD. As we stand in prayer for those affected by Hurricane Harvey, we praised and worshipped to Where Feet May Fail… when oceans rise, may our souls rest in our Lord’s embrace. God, keep our eyes above the waves, and let us walk upon the water. Pastor Duane spoke on torah portion Ki Tetze, When You Go Forth, from Deuteronomy 21:10 – 25:19. This section was like the miscellaneous drawer we all have in our kitchen, but the reminder to love God and our neighbor, was so apparent. Then after praise reports all the way from Norway, and prayer for the relief workers, Rabbi Jonathan reminded us of our Mission and Vision. There are many gods and lords, but we worship YHVH God, and He is Echad (One). Let us love Him with all our desires, all our life (we are walking advertisements), and all our might.
26 August 2017. To The Cross and Shoftim – JLD. Everything I once held dear, I count it all as loss, because Your blood was spilled for my ransom. Bring me to my knees, lay me down, rid me of myself, and lead me Your cross. Praise and worship was powerful as always, after which our special guest Rabbi Arthur Melendez from Waco, along with his companions, brought forth some powerful words. Brother Rodriguez read some poems, one of which reminded us that God has given us ears to hear and eyes to see… use all of your senses. We also recalled how God said the same rule shall apply to the sojourner (Non-Jew), as the Native (Israel), so do not think we are held to different standards. Then from Shoftim, Judges, Deuteronomy 16:18 – 21:9, we learned to not pervert justice, by taking bribes or showing partiality, but rather embrace justice, obedience, and unity.
19 August 2017. Blessings, Curses, and Chaplains – JLD. The God we worship is worthy of all our praise, and He alone deserves the glory. Day and night, night and day, let the incense of our prayers arise to God. Pastor Duane summarized torah portion Re’eh, See, Deuteronomy 11:26 – 16:17. God further has set out blessings and curses; one if we obey the commandments, and the other if we turn aside from them. The enemy even, often, disguises the path to curses, but beware, and choose wisely. Then after praise reports of cancers disappearing, and prayer requests for more miracles, Rabbi Jonathan explained how the devil wants us to disobey biblical commands, and not bring our faith into secular institutions. Yet Project Hero invited our Rabbi (Jonathan) to serve as a Chaplain for healing veterans, and we pray his story encourages you to share your faith, everywhere.
12 August 2017. Expectations and Parenting – JLD. You were the Word at the beginning. You didn’t want heaven without us. You have no rival, and You are the radiance of the glory of God. What a beautiful name yours is, Yeshua, Elohim. We enjoyed praising You, after which Pastor Duane covered Parsha Ekev, Consequence, from Deuteronomy 7:12 – 11:25. Because we follow the commandments, we can expect blessings from God. We may be humbled and hungry at times, but we do not live on bread alone, and God will bring us through, if we do not forget Him. After praise reports for finding fellowship, and prayer requests for miracles, Brother Adam spoke on Parenting. The enemy wants to attack younger generations, and he often does so through targeting fathers. Do not let the adversary win in his ten point agenda, which you can learn about in this message. Amen.
05 August 2017. Commandments and Exorcism – JLD. Are you hurting and broken? Have you come to the end of yourself? Yeshua (Jesus) is calling for you to come to the altar, and leave behind your mistakes. In the torah portion, Brother Phillip covered Va’etchanan, I Pleaded, from Deuteronomy 3:23 – 7:11. Moses was not permitted to enter the promised land, but he was allowed to see it, and was chosen to deliver the S’hema, V’Ahavta, and Ten Commandments. Recite those commandments daily! Then after praise reports for savings at the dentist, and prayer for healings, Rabbi Jonathan spoke on spiritual warfare, and leveraged the trailer from The Rite (2011) https://youtu.be/yeYQ6DDI0_U. As per Ephesians 6:12, spiritual warfare is real. Have you trained, overcome fear, and removed enough hooks in your life, to defeat demonic forces?
29 July 2017. Delegating and Warships – JLD. As Believers in His Word, we claim that we can overcome every obstacle, by the Blood of the Lamb. And the words in our testimonies, shall inspire others going through similar hardships. You are not alone. We have God, and each other. In the torah portion, our Shabbat School Coordinator, Paula, opened up Devarim, Words, from Deuteronomy 1:1 – 3:22. Moses reminded Israel everything God had done for them, and a key learning was the importance of delegating. No one can do everything. Then after awesome praise reports, a few prayer requests, and the mourners kaddish, Rabbi Jonathan continued speaking about vows and commitments. Our members know we are figuratively on a warship, where we all have a job, and should leverage the Word as our guide. Further, our captain-pastor is worthy of double honor.
22 July 2017. Making Vows and Commitments – JLD. Your love has captured me, and Your grace has set me free. Your life is the air I breathe, and I want to be glorified in Thee Messiah. After some amazing praise and worship, Pastor Harry summarized Mattot and Massei, Tribes and Journeys, Numbers 30:2 – 36:13. Despite how loose some people are with their promises, God expects that whenever we give our word, we keep it. After all, God will call all of our words into judgement, as per Mathew 12:36. Then after praise reports and prayer requests, Rabbi Jonathan continued on the topic of vows, while also connecting to a message from November of 2016. Did the people who helped plant Messiah Echad, make a Ruth like vow, or have Jonathan like love, extending full trust and loyalty? We pray they did, and enjoy the gold coins we will now give out annually.
15 July 2017. Exceptions and Yeshua Israel – JLD. God is jealous for me, and He loves me like a hurricane. I feel like a tree, bending beneath the weight of God’s mercy. Do you know that He loves you too? Amen. Rabbi Jonathan spoke on Parsha Pinchas, Numbers 25:10 – 30:1, which proceeds a believer (Pinchas) being so zealous for God, he speared two brazen, sinning believers. Will you similarly stand boldly for God? And what did you think about the Daughters of Zelophedad asking an unchanging God, for an exception? Well, God granted it, and we encourage you to also grant exceptions, lest God not do so for you. Then after praise reports and prayer requests, Kobi Ferguson from Yeshua Israelspoke on how even the Orthodox Jewish Believers in Israel, are being reached through teaching, music, and benevolence. May Adonai continue to bless our ministries.
08 July 2017. Confronting Those Who Sin – JLD. My God how great You are; the heavens are telling the earth how great You are, and we respond daily to Your love. In the Torah portion, Watchman Alexander covered Balak, from Numbers 22:1 – 25:9. As Israel approached Moab, King Balak summoned a diviner and polytheist, Balam, to curse Israel. Yet God did not allow Balam to utter a curse, rather Balam spoke the MaTovu. Be mindful though, of jerks like Balam, who still want to curse you, or cause you to sin. Then after praise reports of medical healings, and a few prayer requests, Rabbi Jonathan picked up where Alex left off; how to confront sin. First, you are not the Sin Police, so focus on confronting sins against yourself. Second, take the log out of your eye, before criticizing the speck in your brother’s. Finally, as a believer, don’t be a hypocrite.
01 July 2017 – Hosanna In The Highest and Gideons – JLD. Imagine us in the heavenly throne room, before our Father, worshipping. What would it mean if they stood, and rose their hands back to us? Wow! Wonderful praise and worship, as always. In the parsha, Rabbi Jonathan summarized Chukat, Statute, Numbers 19:1 – 22:1. The Lord spoke to Israel about the red heifer sacrifice, not touching dead people, not complaining, and not rebelling against God. So in applying the gleanings to our modern world, is our spiritual cleanliness still affected by our physical actions, can a priest intercede on your behalf for your sins, and do we maintain the ability to conquer giants? Then after praise reports and prayer requests, Royce Linsey from the Gideons blessed us with amazing testimonies, detailing how one Bible can have multiplicative, transformative implications. Amen.
24 June 2017 – Rebellion and Liberal California – JLD. Baruch Ata Adonai Eloheinu, Melech haolam; Blessed be the Lord our God, King of the Universe! Yeshua (Jesus) is the Messiah (Christ)! In the parsha, Pastor Duane covered Korach, from Numbers 16:1 – 18:32. Rebellion almost caused the whole of Israel to be destroyed, but when the Man of God prayed, many people were saved. Do not rebel, especially against Men of God. Then after amazing praise reports, and some heartfelt prayer requests, Rabbi Jonathan talked about the biblical basis for separation, distinguishing, and discrimination, from Leviticus 20:22-26. We even considered California’s State ban on travel to Texas, due to anti- LGBT legislation… it was quite a controversial sermon! Our slides are online, and see you next week, as we invite The Gideon’s to guest preach https://www2.gideons.org/blog
17 June 2017 – Plans and Ephraim Restoration – JLD. The God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob is awesome, and we long for Him to fill this place. After praise and worship, Rabbi Jonathan covered Shlach, Send, Numbers 13:1 – 15:41. The Children of Israel were given a plan or promise by God, yet they did not act on it, because fear of giants figuratively punched them in the mouth. Has this ever happened to you? Did you turn to the advice of a Joshua or Caleb? Something to consider. Then after praise reports of folks coming back from Israel, and prayer for physical healing, an Orthodox Jew from United 2 Restore, Hanoch Young, spoke about the restoration of both houses of Israel. For such a time as this, restoration is needed between Judah and Ephraim, two houses of Israel. Please support our heart for unity, catch us next Shabbat for oneg, and oh, Happy Fathers Day!
10 June 2017 – Levites and Passing The Baton – JLD. You’re the one who conquers giants, and calls out kings. You shut the mouths of lions, and tell the dead to breathe. You walk through fire, and take the orphan’s hand. You are the one Messiah, I Am, and we enjoy praising You. In the Torah portion, Pastor Harry spoke on Beha’alotcha, When You Set Up, Numbers 8:1 – 12:15. This parsha spoke on the Levites, Second Passover, and the continued complaining, over things like Moses marrying a Cushite. FYI, God does not like complainers. Then after many praise reports and prayer requests, to include upcoming surgeries, Rabbi Jonathan discussed the importance of Passing The Baton. The V’Ahavta in Deuteronomy 6:5-9 is cornerstone, and connected to the Levites being told to retire at 50 years… sounds like God wants us to actively prepare future generations.
03 June 2017 – Jealousy and Spiritual Warfare – JLD. It is God’s breath in our lungs, so the appropriate response is for us to pour out our praise to Him (God), and only to Him. Great are You Lord! In the torah portion, Brother Adam covered Nasso, Take Up, from Numbers 4:21 – 7:89. There was a census, reminder to remove sin from the camp, and instructions on how to address jealousy. On the surface, this section might be about husbands and wives, but what about brides (us) who stray away from our groom (the Word)? Our God is a jealous God, for Israel, which is His bride, so mind that which you are called to do. Then after some amazing praise reports, and a little prayer, Pastor Duane spoke on Spiritual Warfare. The shield of the Spirit is for defense, and offense, against the spiritual forces of evil. Let us stand up to evil forces, and be a light unto the world.
27 May 2017 – Protecting Our Leaders and Salvation – JLD. We live in a world that preaches tolerance to the point we often become timid about our faith, but let us feel confident enough to shout from the rooftops that we are God’s beloved children! In the torah portion, Pastor Duane spoke on Bamidbar, In The Wilderness, from Numbers 1:1 – 4:20. Moses and the Levites were tasked with the responsibility of leading hundreds of thousands of people, but the people were tasked with something as well… surrounding and protecting their spiritual leaders. How might you be able to do that better? Then after praise reports and prayer requests, Rabbi Jonathan spoke on Holy Spirit vs. Bible Based Regeneration, and how our works might affect salvation, justification, and righteousness. Enjoy this study on our fifth statement of faith, and Shavuot Semeach (Happy Pentecost)!
20 May 2017 – Television and Graduation – JLD. Although enemies rush on the city of Israel, and run on the wall, Adonai (God) continues to utter His voice of protection. We pray always, for the peace of Jerusalem, and restoration between Christians and Jews. The torah portion, Behar and Bechukotai, On My Mountain and in My Statues, Leviticus 25:1 – 27:34, was covered by our Shabbat School Teacher, Christina Velez. This week’s focus was on Shabbat rests, equality, and idols… do you spend more time with anything, like television, than you do in worship? Then after praise reports and prayer, Rabbi Jonathan let the secret out; he just finished two years of seminary at Colorado Christian University! Mazel Tov (Congratulations) on obtaining classical training, and sharing your thesis with us, on “Messianic Jewish Apologetics to a Christian Audience”.
13 May 2017 – Holy Priests and Hebrew – JLD. I sing praises to Your Name, oh Lord, for Your Name is great, and greatly to be praised. May everyone listening in, continue to exalt you God, for truly, He is above all of the earth. In the torah portion, Brother Phillip covered Emor, Say, Leviticus 21:1 – 24:23. This section was about being holy priests unto the Lord, and we know from Corinthians that the Lord is Spirit, and where the Spirit is, there is holiness and purity. Further and although we are saved by grace, we have work to do, here on earth. Praise reports included many things, and we prayed that God can continue to bless us, so we can continue to give thanks next week. In the main message, Brother Mitch spoke about differences the Hebrew language has from English, and the subsequent nuances in translation. May you be encouraged to study the Word!
06 May 2017 – Azazael and Scaring Satan – JLD. Everything I once held dear, I count it all as loss… lead me to the cross, where Your love poured out. Yes, and may many people be similarly led, to surrender to You Lord. In the torah portion, Watchman Alex covered Acharei Mot and Kedoshim, After the death and Holy People, from Leviticus 16:1 – 20:27. Some key points were to respect how life is in the blood, which neither Israel nor Sojourners should consume, and we also discussed the nature of Azazael. Then after praise reports and prayer, Rabbi Jonathan spoke on how we can make the devil scared. To grow the congregation emotionally, physically connect with other believers. To grow the congregation physically, give milk or easily digestible messages, to the new people. And to grow spiritually, put off things of the world, then put on things of God!
29 April 2017 – Lashon Hara and Legalists – JLD. Falling in love with Jesus, was the best thing I have ever done. In His arms, I am never disconnected, and there is no place I would rather be. Beautiful worship, after which Pastor Harry covered Tazria, She Will Conceive, and Metzora, Leper, Leviticus 12:1 – 15:33. There were instructions on how to purify women, and details on how to address people with skin conditions. Interestingly, some skin afflictions were brought about by lashon hara or speaking ill against others. Then after praise reports and prayer requests, Rabbi Jonathan helped us determine if Messianic Jews are legalists. By leveraging John 8:1-11, we determined Messianic Jews are not, but after watching https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3NL6GtAIReY, we learned who the real legalists are, plus how to deal with them.
22 April 2017 – Altars, Kosher, and Kneeling – JLD. When I look down, from lofty mountain grandeur, and see the brook, and feel the gentle breeze, then sings my soul, my Savior God, to Thee, how great Thou art. Beautiful praise and worship. Rabbi Jonathan covered Sh’mini, Eighth, from Leviticus 9:1 – 11:47, building builds upon our message on Confessing Sins, then digging into Moses telling Israel to draw near to the altar, to make atonement for sins. And after our sins are laid down on the altar, God will remove our transgressions. Amen. The parsha also spoke on Beavis (Nadab), and Abihu (Butthead), playing with fire, then closed with a section on what is kosher, and what is not. After praise reports and prayer, Pastor Duane spoke on Kneeling to Meet Our Master. Consider; have you prepared yourself for God, and are you ready to kneel at the altar, so God can alter you?
15 April 2017. Time To Confess Your Sins – JLD. More love. More power. More of You in my life. Let us worship you, with all of our heart, mind, and strength, because You are our Lord. So with it being the week of Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread, there was no torah portion, but Brother Adam reminded us that Yeshua (Jesus) is God, and Brother Phillip poetically said we and Jesus go together, like Popeye and Spinach. Praise reports included thankfulness for Melinda being our Rebbetzin (and the birthday girl), while prayer requests were around health and jobs. Then in the main message, Rabbi Jonathan said Yeshua (Jesus) is our Passover Lamb (John 1:29), as well as the First Fruits (1 Corinthians 15:23), but we still have sins in need of confession and forgiveness. Be mindful of intent, frequency, and outcome, then help us decrease sin at Messiah Echad.
10 April 2017. Fourth Annual Passover Seder – JLD. We began our Seder with a prayer for unity, then our congregation’s own sounding of the shofar, which we believe can be heard physically and spiritually. Should you wish to follow along with the order of service, visit http://messiahechad.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/ME-Haggadah.pdf. Rabbi Jonathan wrote our Messianic Haggadah to be brief, interactive, and shareable, so feel free to connect with it. The seder dinner is about Exodus 12:3-11, where we are commanded to mark our doorposts, roast lamb in fire, and remove leaven or puffiness from our lives. What you might not know is how these are all things that Yeshua Messiah (Jesus Christ) observed, so as followers of Him, so should we. Plus eating lamb meat, dipping the parsley, and singing Dayeynu is so much fun. Catch you for Shabbat Service, this upcoming Saturday at 03pm.
08 April 2017. Preparation and Removing Leaven – JLD. What a Beautiful name it. What a wonderful name it is. What a powerful name it is. The name Yeshua (Jesus). Righteous. King. And we know of His awesome power, from all the signs and miracles He performs. Pastor Duane covered Tzav, Command, from Leviticus 6:1 – 8:36. This torah portion is about sacrifices and squiggly lines, but also priests who had a passion to perform things unto the Lord, and priests who had to get dressed up, in order to remove just the ashes. Amen. Let us be the prepared, holy vessels, wherein He dwells. Then after praise reports and prayer requests, Rabbi Jonathan covered the second of the three part Passover Series; removing leaven and puffiness. The Feast of Unleavened Bread is to be observed throughout our generations, and yes, Spring Cleaning is also in the New Covenant.
01 April 2017. Calling, Easter, and Passover – JLD. Holy Spirit; You are welcome here. Come flood this place, and fill the atmosphere. Your glory is what our hearts long for, to become overcome by your presence. Amen, and may that increase from Him, truly come. Brother Mitch covered parsha Vayikra, He Called, Leviticus 1:1 – 5:26, which is about laws, but it is also about a God who is ever calling each believer. It does not matter your sins; Messiah cleanses them, and allows you to be called out. After praise reports, to include biopsies coming back negative, then prayer requests, Rabbi Jonathan questioned the bible’s stance on Easter. Sadly, coloring eggs or thinking rabbits lay eggs, might be contra-biblical… celebrating the Exodus Story, Passover Meal, or Resurrection of Messiah, is pleasing to God. So include that in your active faith, and celebrate with us.
25 March 2017. Following Shabbat and The Spirit – JLD. April is packed with events, so be sure to visit https://messiahechad.org/services/, to get details on our Passover Seder, Spring Mikveh (Baptism), and more. You might also enjoy watching The Passover Movie https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q1tRF4HfsHc. In this past week’s service, it was so great to declare that through the valley of the shadow, and in the midst of deep sorrows, we are not alone! Next, Rebbetzin Melinda covered Vayakhel (And he assembled), and Pekudei (Accountings Of), from Exodus 35:1 – 40:38. Its all about the relationship with God, so make sure to take a Shabbat rest and keep your living temple (body) clean. Finally, Rabbi Jonathan spoke on our third statement of faith; belief in the Holy Spirit Gift from God. And the Spirit, can enable us believers to get along.
18 March 2017 – Clean Hands and Temples – JLD. We sang kadosh, kadosh, kadosh… Adonai Elohim tz’va’ot, because holy, holy, holy, is our Lord God of hosts indeed. During the parsha, Rabbi Jonathan covered Ki Tisa, When You Take, Exodus 30:11 – 34:35. In the census tax, God requires the same amount from all people, which is different than the tithe, where give is based on income. There was also the golden cow incident or debacle, the covenant being renewed, and the reminder to always wash your hands. Praise reports included getting a Lexus, and we prayer was also awesome! Finally, special thanks to Rabbi Schneider from Discovering the Jewish Jesus, for sending out Dustin Roberts to speak on the tabernacle. God has a divine system for the way He wants us to enter into relationship with Him, and it is based on the design of the tabernacle. And the slides are
11 March 2017 – Sparkly, Esther, and Purim – JLD. This one thing I seek; to dwell within Your House. This only do I seek; to gaze upon your beauty. Yes. May we all continue to seek God! Brother Mitch covered Torah Portion Tetzaveh, You Shall Command, from Exodus 27:20 – 30:10. This section referenced the traditions behind Urim and Tumim. the breastplate worn by the High Priest, which contained the sparkly things that could spell out prophecies. Further, we are similar, living stones, as per 1 Peter 2:5, so get out there and sparkle! Praise reports included how Messiah Echad positively impacted a family that commutes in over an hour each week, then prayer requests asked for healings and jobs. Lastly, with it being Purim, our sermon was a fun read through the Book of Esther, aww, daughter of Mordecai, yay, who defeated Haman, boo, thereby liberating the Jews. And the slides are http://messiahechad.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/11-Mar-2017-Slides.pdf
04 March 2017 – Temple and KJV Translation – JLD. Bless The Lord… You’re rich in love, and You’re slow to anger. Your name is great, and Your heart is kind… we will keep singing about the 10,000 reason we worship Your Holy Name. Our Watchman, Alex, covered Terumah, Heave Offering, from Exodus 25:1 – 27:19. Everything in the Old Testament is a foreshadow or symbolism of things to come, to include the temples and tabernacles. Do you know how many there are in scripture? After praise reports and prayer requests, Rabbi Jonathan recapped our controversial message from last week about Jesus, before questioning the King James Version. Yes we challenged the respected KJV, and maybe you grew up on it too, but check out 1 John 5:7-8 in different translations… words were added. See you for Purim Shabbat on 11 March 2017, and the slides for this past week are
25 February 2017 – Slavery and Negative Jesus – JLD. In the midst of deep sorrow, I see Your light is breaking through. The dark of night will not overtake me, I am pressing into You… I am not alone! Amen, and may each of our listeners, never feel alone. Brother Mitch covered parsha Mishpatim, Judgments, Exodus 21:1 – Exodus 24:18, and the big question was if torah is an archaic set of rules, or an eternal tree of life? It all comes down to Torah vs. Political Correctness. Next was praise reports, and prayer requests, after which Rabbi Jonathan allegorically challenged the negative connotations that some people connect to sweet, gentle Jesus. Is there another way, a positive way, to view Yeshua, even when He did not appear “gentle” or “sweet”? Deep things to consider, and we invite you to ponder them with us, next weekend, during Purim Shabbat. And the slides are http://messiahechad.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/25-Feb-2017-Slides.pdf
18 February 2017 – Covenant and One Law – JLD. There is a sweet anointing in the sanctuary. There is a stillness in the atmosphere… come lay down the burdens you have carried, for in the sanctuary, God is here. Amen. In the torah portion, Brother Adam covered Yitro, Jethro, from Exodus 18:1 – 20:23. By studying the Hebrew, one might see God’s message applying to all mankind, not just those at Mt. Sinai. Hmm. Then was the establishment of a court system (Elders), the Ten Commandments, and the admonition to pursue righteousness. Great segue drash, which after praise reports and prayer requests, dovetailed beautifully into Brother Mitch’s asking if there is One Law, Two Laws, or more? We know this is hotly debated topic that (wrongly) separates Messianic Judaism from Hebrew Roots Christianity; what does the bible? Email us your thoughts office@messiahechad.org, and enjoy the slides
11 February 2017 – Tribulation and Being Renewed – JLD. גדול אלוהי שירו כי גדול אלוהי כל אחד יראה. How great is our God. We invite you to declare right now, how great our God is… He can do a mighty work for you! In the torah portion, Brother Phillip covered Beshalach, When He Sent, from Exodus 13:17 – 17:16. The Children of Israel were led into spiritual baptism and complained often, but God reiterated the importance of tests and tribulations. Rejoice in those trials, surround yourself with good people, and follow God. Then after praise reports, to include welcoming Anthony back from war, and prayer requests, Rabbi Jonathan gave us a goal, told us it will be difficult to achieve, then equipped us to handle the tribulations. If you want to be renewed, delivered from your old man nature, listen to this message! You can do it, and we love you. And the slides are http://messiahechad.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/11-Feb-2017-Slides.pdf
04 February 2017 – Russia, Exodus, and Giants – JLD. We began by greeting our Russian Speaking Listeners… Пожалуйста, наслаждайтесь наше короткое объявление, для всех наших русскоговорящих слушателей. Fun, and for praise and worship, we included Risen, from our Awakened at Messiah Echad Album. In the torah portion, Pastor Harry mentioned a few names of God, before covering Enter, Exodus 10:1 – 13:16, on the plague of locusts, and that of darkness. Yet it took the tenth plague, death of the first born, for Pharoah to let Israel go. Then after praise reports, prayer requests, and a re-iterated shout out to our overseas listeners, Rabbi Jonathan equipped us to see current events such as Valentines Day or when Messiah might return, with the wisdom of serpents yet the gentleness of doves. Amen, and catch you next Shabbat.
28 January 2017 – Plagues and Gangster God – JLD. Though the battle rages on, we will stand in the fight. Though the armies rise against us on all sides; we will not be shaken, because our God is for us. Amen. In the torah portion, our Rebbetzin, Melinda, taught Va’eira, And I appeared, Exodus 6:2 – 9:35, to the children. Our Shabbat School program has not yet covered Moses, but they excitedly learned about how God spoke to him, and used Moses to rescue the Children of Israel. Too bad for Egypt, the rescue process included ten plagues, because Pharaoh’s heart was hardened. Then after praise reports and prayer requests, Rabbi Jonathan gave insight into our first statement of faith, belief in the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. God is like the air, much larger than the Mediator, and is so gangster that He has allows no man to see His face. A very serious God.
21 January 2017 – Perils and Messianic Judaism – JLD. The Lord is worthy, to receive our praise, and Holy, as the Son of God. It was so awesome to sing about Him, and invite His presence into our service. Brother Mitch followed up with a joke, then Parsha Shemot, Names, from Exodus 1:1 – 6:1. The focus was Exodus 3:13-17, and we explored why bad things happen to good people. Part of the answer is because perils need to exist, for a great deliverance to occur… ugh, bring on the perils then. During praise reports, the Rabbi and Rebbetzin were blessed with a trip back to DC (thank you guys!), and prayer request time was powerful as always. Lastly, Rabbi Jonathan preached his first drash or sermon of the year, on the History of Messianic Judaism. We lined our beliefs against seven theological topics, and would love to hear your thoughts on them.
14 January 2017 – Breaking Ankles and Finances – JLD. We invite you to get lost in the words “More Love”, “More Power”, “More Of You In My Life”. Today, cast all of your cares on Him. Yes. Rabbi Jonathan did, and he covered Vayechi, He Lived, Genesis 47:28 – 50:26. This parsha was real, and we learned that our Rabbi was confrontational in times past, to include breaking ankles but big picture, is it our place to punish people or play God? If you are a Jacob, help those people in your care, get along. As a Joseph, forgive. And as the Brothers, repent. Finally, after praise reports, a public confession, then prayer requests, Pastor Gunnar from Gateway Church in Dallas (http://gatewaypeople.com/profiles/gunnar-johnson) preached on financial stewardship. Its all about firsts, generosity, minimal debt, saving, margin (profit), budgets, and eternal perspective. And the slides are attached http://messiahechad.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/31-Oct-2015-Slides.pdf.
07 January 2017 – Jealousy and Old Times – JLD. In our first service of 2017, we sang how our love for God is overwhelming. If G-d had feet, we would want to sit at them, and if He had a heartbeat, we’d want to feel it! In the parsha, Rabbi Jonathan covered Vayigash, he approached, from Genesis 44:18 – 47:27. Due to the unbelief of Israel’s descendants (Jews), G-d gave salvation to the Gentiles (Christians), but it was to win back the Jews, in jealousy. And jealousy was also used to bless Joseph’s, and Egypt; how has God blessed you, to entice people to Him? Then, after praise reports and prayer, Pastor Duane, took us on a Pentecostal style journey, to that old time religion. One of our unique gifts is an Acts 2:38, Azusa Street style presence of the Holy Ghost. Amen… and next Shabbat, we welcome Pastor Gunnar from Gateway Church in Dallas.