Exploring the Sinai Covenant and the Renewed Covenant

 

For many, this question will seem a no-brainer, as many teachers/leaders proclaim that we are in the renewed covenant. Yet, when I study this topic, I come away with a different perspective. When I began following Messiah Yeshua in Torah, the renewed/ new covenant was one of the first things I researched. Despite it being one of my early research projects, I haven’t shared it here on Red Pill Messianic. 

While there are many covenants in the Bible, the word covenant means an agreement. When speaking about The Covenant, most people tend to be referencing the covenant that establishes Elohim’s people. It is this covenant that I will be exploring today, first breaking down what the covenant is (also known as the Sinai covenant or the ‘old’ covenant), and afterward covering the renewed covenant.

The Sinai Covenant

“For they set out from Rephiḏim, and had come to the Wilderness of Sinai, and camped in the wilderness. So Yisra’ĕl (Israel) camped there before the mountain. And Mosheh went up to Elohim, and יהוה called to him from the mountain, saying, “This is what you are to say to the house of Ya‛aqoḇ (Jacob), and declare to the children of Yisra’ĕl(Israel): ‘You have seen what I did to the Mitsrites(Egyptians), and how I bore you on eagles’ wings and brought you to Myself. ‘And now, if you diligently obey My voice, and shall guard My covenant, then you shall be My treasured possession above all the peoples – for all the earth is Mine – ‘and you shall be to Me a reign of priests and a set-apart nation.’ Those are the words which you are to speak to the children of Yisra’ĕl(Israel).” (Exodus 19:2-6)

“And it shall be, if you diligently obey the voice of יהוה your Elohim, to guard to do all His commands which I command you today, that יהוה your Elohim shall set you high above all nations of the earth.” (Deuteronomy 28:1) 

The covenant made at Mount Sinai was between Yah and the House of Israel (Here meaning all twelve tribes, as all are present). The agreement hinges on the people obeying Yah, which is His Torah (instructions), and if they do, then they will be accepted as His people. It’s important to note that this is not the first time the Torah was given; to learn more, please see my article titled “Torah before Mount Sinai”. That means, Adam and Eve, Enoch, Noah, and Abraham, were all expected to obey the Father and if they didn’t, then they were punished, as is the case for Adam and Eve being exiled from the garden. With this understanding, and given the context of the Israelites being freed from Egypt after hundreds of years of slavery, Sinai is the perfect place and time to bring up the covenant. The Israelites probably forgot the ways of the Most High after several generations of being in Egypt.  Later on, we see Ruth, a natural-born Moabite, making the same vow so that she might be counted among Elohim’s people.

“But Ruth said, “Do not urge me to leave you, or to go back from following after you. For wherever you go, I go; and wherever you stop over, I stop over. Your people are my people, and your Elohim is my Elohim.” (Ruth 1:16)

By declaring that Yah will be her Elohim, she’s affirming to diligently obey His voice and to do all that He commands. For there is no other way to enter into that covenant, remember the language used during the giving of the covenant. If you obey the Voice of Yah, then you shall be His people, and Ruth agrees to those conditions. 

The Renewed Covenant

“See, the days are coming,” declares יהוה, “when I shall make a renewed covenant with the house of Yisra’ĕl(Israel) and with the house of Yehuḏah(Judah), not like the covenant I made with their fathers in the day when I strengthened their hand to bring them out of the land of Mitsrayim(Egypt), My covenant which they broke, though I was a husband to them,” declares יהוה. “For this is the covenant I shall make with the house of Yisra’ĕl(Israel) after those days, declares יהוה: I shall put My Torah in their inward parts, and write it on their hearts. And I shall be their Elohim, and they shall be My people. “And no longer shall they teach, each one his neighbor, and each one his brother, saying, ‘Know יהוה,’ for they shall all know Me, from the least of them to the greatest of them,” declares יהוה. “For I shall forgive their crookedness, and remember their sin no more.” (Jeremiah 31:31–34)

There are two key elements of the renewed covenant that should be pointed out. First, the covenant is only between Yah, the House of Israel, and the House of Judah. Eventually, the two houses will be made one once again (also tethered to the renewed covenant). For more information, please see my article titled “Israel and Judah”. Secondly, the Torah gets written on the hearts of His people. How this covenant is not like the one He made at Sinai is that where the original covenant relied upon us to learn and teach the Torah. The renewed covenant has the Torah written on the heart; in essence, it becomes second nature to the Israelites. There will be no need to teach the Torah to others, as they will all intrinsically know it.

This aspect, having the Torah written on the heart and not having to learn/teach it to others, is an indicator that the renewed covenant has not taken place yet. We still have to learn the Torah and teach it to others. Furthermore, in Ezekiel, we have the same covenant being discussed with the added information that all who are scattered will be brought back. This has not happened yet and is directly tied to the renewed covenant.

“And I shall take you from among the nations, and I shall gather you out of all lands, and I shall bring you into your own land. “And I shall sprinkle clean water on you, and you shall be clean – from all your filthiness and from all your idols I cleanse you. “And I shall give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you. And I shall take the heart of stone out of your flesh, and I shall give you a heart of flesh, and put My Spirit within you. And I shall cause you to walk in My laws and guard My right-rulings and shall do them. “And you shall dwell in the land that I gave to your fathers. And you shall be My people, and I shall be your Elohim.” (Ezekiel 36:24-28)

The book of Baruch corresponds with Ezekiel.

“Yet you have dealt with us, Yah our Elohim, in all your kindness and in all your great compassion, as you spoke by your servant Moses on the day when you commanded him to write your law in the presence of the people of Israel, saying, “If you will not obey my voice, this very great multitude will surely turn into a small number among the nations, where I will scatter them. For I know that they will not obey me, for they are a stiff-necked people. But in the land of their exile they will come to themselves and know that I am Yah their Elohim. I will give them a heart that obeys and ears that hear; they will praise me in the land of their exile, and will remember my name and turn from their stubbornness and their wicked deeds; for they will remember the ways of their ancestors, who sinned before Yah. I will bring them again into the land that I swore to give to their ancestors, to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and they will rule over it; and I will increase them, and they will not be diminished. I will make an everlasting covenant with them to be their Elohim and they shall be my people; and I will never again remove my people Israel from the land that I have given them.” (Baruch 2:27–35)

As mentioned earlier, the renewed covenant is also characterized by the two houses becoming one. To add, in the renewed covenant, the Israelites no longer sin (Torah is written on their hearts), David (Most likely referencing Yeshua, as he is also called a son of David) is made king over Israel, there will be peace in the land, and Elohim will establish His set-apart place among them.  

“And speak to them, ‘Thus said the Master יהוה, “See, I am taking the children of Yisra’ĕl from among the nations, wherever they have gone, and shall gather them from all around, and I shall bring them into their land. “And I shall make them one nation in the land, on the mountains of Yisra’ĕl(Israel). And one sovereign shall be sovereign over them all, and let them no longer be two nations, and let them no longer be divided into two reigns. “And they shall no longer defile themselves with their idols, nor with their disgusting matters, nor with any of their transgressions. And I shall save them from all their dwelling places in which they have sinned, and I shall cleanse them. And they shall be My people, and I be their Elohim, while Dawiḏ(David) My servant is sovereign over them. And they shall all have one shepherd and walk in My right-rulings and guard My laws, and shall do them. “And they shall dwell in the land that I have given to Ya‛aqoḇ(Jacob) My servant, where your fathers dwelt. And they shall dwell in it, they and their children and their children’s children, forever, and My servant Dawiḏ(David) be their prince forever. “And I shall make a covenant of peace with them – an everlasting covenant it is with them. And I shall place them and increase them, and shall place My set-apart place in their midst, forever. “And My Dwelling Place shall be over them. And I shall be their Elohim, and they shall be My people.” (Ezekiel 37:21–27)

None of what we just read has occurred yet, and would take some mental gymnastics to make it fit with the notion that the renewed/new covenant is in effect. What about in the Messianic and Apostolic writings, is there any information on the renewed covenant that might be gleaned from its pages? 

Messianic Writings on the Renewed Covenant

“And as they were eating, יהושע took bread, and having blessed, broke and gave it to the taught ones and said, “Take, eat, this is My body.” And taking the cup, and giving thanks, He gave it to them, saying, “Drink from it, all of you. “For this is My blood, that of the renewed covenant, which is shed for many for the forgiveness of sins. “But I say to you, I shall certainly not drink of this fruit of the vine from now on till that day when I drink it anew with you in the reign of My Father.” (Matthew 26:26-29)

Yeshua plays a major role in ushering in the renewed covenant, and afterward, when it’s fully enacted. Yeshua said he was sent only for the lost sheep of the house of Israel; he had to redeem them, and the only way he could was through death. That’s because of the Torah instructions concerning a man and his wife; after Israel was divorced and played the harlot, there was no other way to bring them back. For more information, please see my article “Redeeming the Bride.” Yeshua also takes on the role of mediator in the covenant, as described in Hebrews.

“But now He has obtained a more excellent service, inasmuch as He is also Mediator of a better covenant, which was constituted on better promises. For if that first covenant had been faultless, then no place would have been sought for a second. For finding fault with them, He says, “See, the days are coming,” says יהוה, “when I shall conclude with the house of Yisra’ĕl(Israel) and with the house of Yehuḏah(Judah) a renewed covenant, not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day when I took them by the hand to lead them out of the land of Mitsrayim(Egypt), because they did not continue in My covenant, and I disregarded them,” says יהוה. “Because this is the covenant that I shall make with the house of Yisra’ĕl(Israel) after those days, says יהוה, giving My laws in their mind, and I shall write them on their hearts, and I shall be their Elohim, and they shall be My people. “And they shall by no means teach each one his neighbor, and each one his brother, saying, ‘Know יהוה,’ because they all shall know Me, from the least of them to the greatest of them. “Because I shall forgive their unrighteousness, and their sins and their lawlessnesses I shall no longer remember.” By saying, ‘renewed,’ He has made the first old. Now what becomes old and growing aged is near disappearing.” (Hebrews 8:6-13)

What are the better promises in the renewed covenant? Israel and Judah becoming one and never separating again, Elohim’s people will inherit the land promised to their forefathers and never to be cast out again, Elohim’s people will no longer sin, the Torah is written on Elohim’s people, Elohim will set His place among His people forever, Yeshua will be the forever King over Israel, and there will be peace for Yah’s people. At the end, Paul is simply stating that the renewed covenant is on its way, as the first is laid to rest when the renewed version starts.  

I know there are many ministers out there, even Messianic/ Hebrew ones, who believe and teach we are in the renewed covenant. While I do think it’s important to know which covenant is standing, although entry is essentially the same, I don’t think it should be a point of division. The population of Hebrews is small, and we do not need to be divided spiritually, as many of us are physical. I implore everyone to do their own research and test everything, including this article. May the Ruach Hakodesh be your guide to all truth.

P.S.

Check out some of my books! Available in both print and Kindle versions.     

Discovering Life Lessons from Elohim's Creation: The Mountain, Tree, and Rivers

 

Elohim’s creation is full of wonder, mystery, and if one is observant, the very mountains, trees, and rivers may teach you something. Not in the sense that they will speak to you in verbal form, but in a language nonetheless, you need only be attentive and contemplative.

“For since the creation of the world His invisible qualities have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, both His everlasting power and Mightiness…” (Romans 1:20)

His invisible qualities can mean a multitude of things, but for me, it’s the lessons that Elohim shares via the creation. In a way, it has taken the place of a mentor. I still watch and listen to several different teachers, but for years now, I have been without a mentor. If you’ve never experienced that type of relationship, it’s hard to imagine the whole that is left when a mentor departs. I think it’s how the disciples felt when Yeshua left them, albeit it must have felt much more amplified. What I have written down below are a few lessons accompanied by corresponding Scripture. I hope you find some wisdom or benefit in them. 

Yah Speaks Through His Creation

Observe how the mountain does not bow to the wind; it remains calm and fixated. Now, notice how a tree sways and gives with the wind. It does not struggle against the wind but uses the wind to either cast off old branches or to spread its seed. Finally, watch the many rivers that flow down the mountain. Some faster and some slower, yet all reach the bottom in due time. 

Observation Notes

The Mountain- At times, we must be like the mountain, strong, independent, unmoving, and reserved. For example, when you set boundaries with someone, you must maintain them, or they will test your limits to find a way through. Think of them as being the wind; they push and conjure up a mighty gust, but you are planted and are unbendable. Upon your sharp resolution, their attempts will fall by the wayside. 

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid, nor be discouraged, for יהוה your Elohim is with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9)

The Tree- At times, we must emulate the tree, being flexible yet firm, pruning ourselves, and maximizing effectiveness. Learn to use opposition to either cast off negative aspects of your character or to grow and spread your utility. In life, we will experience storms; we may lose our jobs or have a relationship come to a close. In these moments, we can use the turbulence caused by such scenarios to better ourselves. We can take losing the job to finally try that business idea we’ve been sitting on but never attempted because we were too comfortable. In the same token, a breakup might reveal some nasty habits we have that need to be let go of. Use the storm, don’t let the storm use you. 

“And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you prove what is that good and well-pleasing and perfect desire of Elohim.” (Romans 12:2)

The Rivers-   Life is much like the rivers making their way down the mountain; it bends and flows at various speeds. But unlike the rivers, we are constantly comparing our progress to others. What good is this? Why say “When he was my age, he already did this and that.” Can one man’s journey be compared to another’s? If so, it should not be done in a competitive manner. You are the river, constantly moving to your end state, and there will be many obstacles along the way. Knowing this, do not stop at every rock along the way, for this will disrupt your flow. Do not wear yourself thin, becoming nothing more than a stream, unable to properly flow and provide aid to weary travelers. Likewise, do not become so full of yourself that you become a flood, destroying everything around you. A healthy river is not too small or too large, and it is not dammed up but flows continually and effortlessly.   

“Trust in יהוה with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding;” (Proverbs 3:5)

Putting it All Together 

Life is all about growing and becoming the best version of ourselves. Our ideal state is to become like the Messiah, as Paul wrote to be imitators of him as he is of the Messiah. Being better today than we were yesterday is the epitome of self-development, and the tools to achieve this are all around us. The Bible, righteous leaders/teachers, and the very creation model. From the mountain, we learn what it means to be unflinching in the face of challenges. From the tree, how to use troubling times to benefit us. Last but not least, from the rivers, how we are all on our own path, and that we should focus on our own efficiency.    

P.S.

Check out some of my books! Available in both print and Kindle versions.  

Remembering Rob Skiba: A Tribute to a Great Man of Torah

 

Those of us following after the Master’s footsteps lost a great man this month, Rob Skiba. I never got to meet him in person, but I watched hours upon hours of his content. He helped me see the truth about Biblical Cosmology, the value of books removed from the Bible, and Torah. In fact, when I first realized that the Torah was still applicable today, I thought I was the only one who understood this. It all started with me really looking at the Man of Lawlessness (I wrote an article about that here, “The Man of Lawlessness”), and what it meant to be lawless. It didn’t take long for me to find Rob’s website, The Ephraim Awakening (https://ephraimawakening.com/category/law-and-grace/), and while I don’t recall the exact article I read, I do remember it going over the Man of Lawlessness. The same passage of scripture that had shaken me awake! From then on, I tuned in regularly to Rob’s Torah teachings, along with many other videos of his. He was a great man, husband, disciple, and teacher. The impact he had on the body of Messiah is truly inspiring, and I thank El Shaddai for using Rob in such a glorious way. 

With the recent passing of such a prominent figure in the Torah community, several recognizable YouTubers made a memorial or Tribute video. The one Parable of the Vineyard did (https://youtu.be/fo51XjikkgI), brought some new insight into what happens when we die. Since I myself had already written on the matter (“What Happens When We Die, According to the Bible?”), I felt it was appropriate to add this new knowledge to my website, while also expanding upon it here at Red Pill Messianic.

A Seven-Day Journey 

“I replied: “If I have found favor with you, Adoni, show this also to your servant: After death, as soon as each person gives up his or her soul, will we be kept asleep until the time comes for you to begin to renew creation, or will we be tormented right away?”He replied to me: “I will show you this too. But don’t associate yourself with those who have shown contempt, and don’t count yourself among those who are tormented.  You have a treasure of works stored up with the Most High, but it won’t be shown to you until the last times.” (2 Esdras 7:75-76) 

“I answered: “Will time, therefore, be given to souls after they are separated from the bodies to see what you told me?” He said to me: “They will be free for seven days so that they may see in those seven days the things that have been foretold. After this, they will be gathered in their dwelling places.” (2 Esdras 7:100-101)

According to 2 Esdras, when we die, before we are carried off into slumber, we are shown seven things across seven days. The nature of what we see is entirely based upon how we lived here, whether we followed Abba’s ways or not. Reading chapter 7, I couldn’t help but think of all the people I know in my life. How many are considered ‘good’, but this generalization of the definition, which has been construed in such a way that practically everyone falls into this category, is one of the most harmful lies I can think of. To believe that one is living a good life when in reality they are trampling upon the Creator’s very instructions that bring blessings and life.

What the Wicked Witness

“Now a word about death: When the final sentence goes forth from the Most High that a person should die, when the spirit recedes from the body so that it may be sent again to him who gave it, the first thing is to stand in awe before the glory of the Most High. If the spirit belonged to one of those who showed contempt and didn’t keep the Most High’s way, if it was one of those who despised his Torah and who hates those who fear Elohim, these spirits don’t go into their dwellings but will immediately wander about in torments. They will constantly grieve and be sorrowful for seven reasons: The first reason—because they despised the Torah of the Most High. The second reason—because they can’t now effectively change their hearts and lives so that they might live. The third reason—because they will see the reward laid up for those who have believed the Most High’s testimonies. The fourth reason—because they will consider the torment laid up for themselves in the last days. The fifth reason—because they will see the dwelling places of others, guarded by angels in great silence. The sixth reason—because they see the torment coming upon them from now on. The seventh reason, which is greater than all the previously mentioned reasons—because they will melt away in confusion and be consumed in disgrace. “They will wither in fear when they see the glory of the Most High, before whom they sinned when they were alive and before whom they are to be judged in the last times.” (2 Esdras 7:78-87)

Both the wicked and the righteous appear before Yah, but after that, the two take drastically different paths. Those who hated and loathed the Torah will see the torment that awaits them, and their remaining moments of awareness will be filled with despair and anguish. Once again, I think about those who were close to me who have already experienced death. Particularly the ones whom I have spoken to of the truth, and did not listen to sound doctrine. Then, of course, the thoughts of “well maybe if I had tried a little harder”, “If only I had interacted with them more”, and “If I could have taken them out of that environment.” Knowing fully that I did my best…and that is all I have to say on such troubling matters. 

What the Righteous Witness

“The arrangement for those who kept Elohim’s ways is this when they begin to be separated from the corruptible body. In the time of their exile here they labored hard to serve the Most High. Every hour they endured danger so that they might keep the Torah of the Torah giver perfectly. Therefore, this is the word about them: First, they will see with great joy the glory of him who receives them. They will have rest on account of seven orders: The first order—because they have struggled hard to overcome the evil thought fashioned within them so that it wouldn’t lead them astray from life to death. The second order—because they see the panic in which the souls of the wicked wander and the punishment that awaits them. The third order—seeing the testimony that their maker has testified on their behalf, because when they were alive, they kept the Torah that was given through faith. The fourth order—understanding the peaceful rest that they now enjoy, gathered in their resting chambers, guarded by angels in deep silence, and understanding the glory that awaits them in their last days. The fifth order—rejoicing at how they have now escaped the corruptible and how they will have a future inheritance; moreover, seeing the narrow space, full of labor, from which they have been freed, and the spacious place they are about to receive and enjoy, now that they are immortal. The sixth order—when they are shown how their face begins to shine like the sun and how they begin to be like the stars, as beings of incorruptible light. The seventh order, which is greater than all those mentioned—because they will rejoice with confidence and will trust without being disappointed and will rejoice without fear; for they hasten to see the face of him whom they served when they were alive and from whom they are about to receive a reward now that they are glorified. “This is the order of the souls of the just, as is announced immediately, and those previously mentioned are the ways of torment that those who paid no heed will suffer.” (2 Esdras 7:88-99)

It’s encouraging to read such a passage; it brings me hope and happiness for those brothers and sisters who have already fallen asleep in Messiah. This world is difficult, more so for those who follow Yeshua in Torah obedience. But our reward for persevering until the end is greater than any trouble we may face here. Rob Skiba fought the good fight, ran the race to win it, and was not afraid to stand up for Elohim’s truth. I am confident Rob enjoyed the seven days after his passing, seeing all the wonderful things aforementioned, before entering into a peaceful sleep of the Messiah. Elohim willing, I too will see this when my time comes. Until then, Rob rest in Shalom.

The Scriptures 2009: A Hebraic Translation of the Bible

 

The Scriptures 2009 is a translation by the Institute for Scripture Research (ISR), an organization based in South Africa that identifies as being Messianic. For the Tanak (Old Testament), they based their translation on the Masoretic Hebrew and the Aramaic; the Messianic Writings (New Testament) are based on the existing Greek copies. The ISR holds firm that the original Messianic Writings were written in a Semitic language (Hebrew/Aramaic), and the Greek versions are just copies of those. I see the rational reasoning behind this, as the disciples and many of the followers of the Messiah were Jews. It would only make sense to write down the events of Yeshua in their native tongue. 

The Scriptures 2009 opts for transliteration of names, this being the translation I use on this website; you’ve probably seen examples of this before. With Yeshua and Yah appearing in their Hebrew forms. While at first, this can seem confusing or additional work from looking up the names, I’ve found it to be worth the effort. As I’ve mentioned in “The Book of James or Jacob?”, names have meaning, and sometimes those names lose their meaning when translated. Having the names transliterated into English has added to my understanding of the Hebrew language and mindset. 

For example, Daniel transliterated in the form of Dani’el signals to me that his name has something to do with Elohim. This is identified with the “el”, and Daniel’s name means Elohim is my judge. 

This is my go-to translation, but it is not the only translation I use. As researchers of the word, it is a good idea to have several different translations to get a holistic view of the verses. Other translations that were recently brought to my attention, worth mentioning, are the Aramaic targums and the Hebrew versions of Matthew. 

 If you’re looking for an additional translation to add to your collection or want a version of the scriptures that was translated with a Hebraic mindset, then the Scriptures 2009 is an excellent choice. Those of my family that are Messianic have chosen this version and several ministries have adopted this translation. One such ministry is Triumph in Truth; a congregation of believers led by G. Steven Simons.  

This translation of the Bible is easy to read (once you grasp the names) and maintains the identity of sematic language and themes.

P.S.

Check out some of my books! Available in both print and Kindle versions.  

The Importance of Physical Fitness in the Body of Messiah

 

At one time, the human population’s survivability rested on its general fitness level. Hunters needed a healthy cardiovascular system to catch their prey. Farmers needed the endurance and strength to till the ground, making the landscape suitable for growing crops. Nomadic tribes needed strong, durable legs to walk miles at a time, and still have the energy to set up camp when they got to their destination. 

As technology progressed, our lives became easier, and with that ease, we adopted a sedentary lifestyle. We sit when we work (not all jobs but a fair amount), when we eat, watch TV, read books, play games, drive, etc. No longer are we forced to be fit to survive.  

Because being fit is no longer essential for living, people have viewed exercising as optional. A hobby that some people take up. But being physically active is necessary for living a healthy life. I know many older people who work out regularly and have great mobility. They also take way less medication than their counterparts. 

Keeping fit spiritually is important, and any serious follower of the Messiah will stay refined. But what about maintaining a healthy body through regular exercise? I believe, for the most part, that the body of Messiah is lacking in this area. As our bodies have become the dwelling place for the Set-Apart Spirit, we should take care to have a beautiful temple. This does not mean we must be star athletes, but being morbidly obese cannot be what the Father wants for us.

“Or do you not know that your body is the Dwelling Place of the Set-apart Spirit who is in you, which you have from Elohim, and you are not your own? For you were bought with a price, therefore esteem Elohim in your body and in your spirit, which are of Elohim.” (1 Corinthians 6:19-20)

While the Bible may not directly state or overemphasize the importance of fitness, there are several examples of people being physically strong or capable.

Tanak Examples of Fitness  

Noah Builds the Ark: 

“Make yourself an ark of gopherwood. Make rooms in the ark, and cover it inside and outside with a covering.” (Genesis 6:14)

“And He commanded Noah to make him an ark, that he might save himself from the waters of the flood. And Noah made the ark in all respects as He commanded him, in the twenty-seventh jubilee of years (year 1307), in the fifth week in the fifth year (on the new moon of the first month)” (Jubilees 5:22)  

Building such a large vessel requires considerable strength and endurance, and although he had some help, it took time. That does not take away from his physical conditioning being top-notch.

Jacob Wrestles the Messenger: 

“And Ya‛aqoḇ (Jacob) was left alone. And a Man wrestled with him until the breaking of day. And when He saw that He did not overcome him, He touched the socket of his hip. And the socket of Ya‛aqoḇ’s hip was dislocated as He wrestled with him. And He said, “Let Me go, for the day breaks.” But he said, “I am not letting You go until You have blessed me!” So He asked him, “What is your name?” And he said, “Ya‛aqoḇ (Jacob).” And He said, “Your name is no longer called Ya‛aqoḇ (Jacob), but Yisra’ĕl (Israel), because you have striven with Elohim and with men, and have overcome.” (Genesis 32:24-28)

Wrestling, let alone for long periods at a time, is very taxing and utilizes the entire body. If Jacob were not physically fit, he would not have been able to contend with the Messenger of Elohim.

David’s Mighty Men: 

“These are the names of the mighty men whom Dawiḏ (David) had: Yoshĕḇ-Bassheḇeth the Taḥkemonite, chief among the officers, he was Aḏino the Etsnite (Eznite), for eight hundred slain at one time.  And after him was El‛azar son of Doḏo, the Aḥoḥite, one of the three mighty men with Dawiḏ (David) when they taunted the Philistines who were gathered there for battle, and the men of Yisra’ĕl (Israel) had gone up. He arose and struck the Philistines until his hand was weary, but his hand clung to the sword, so יהוה brought about a great deliverance that day. And the people returned after him only to plunder. And after him was Shammah son of Aḡĕ the Hararite. And the Philistines had gathered into a company where there was a plot of ground covered with lentils, and the people fled from the Philistines. But he took his stand in the middle of the field, and delivered it, and struck the Philistines, and יהוה wrought a great deliverance.” (2 Samuel 23:8-12)

These three warriors not only possessed a mastery over the art of combat but also had the physical capabilities to do all that they did. Of course, they were blessed by Yah, but that does not mean they didn’t have to put the work in. A farmer may be blessed by Elohim, but the farmer still has to till the ground and plant the crops. 

This can be said for any soldier mentioned in the bible, or anytime the Hebrews had to travel long distances. To put into perspective the kind of endurance and strength that is required to be nomadic, get a hiking backpack, fill it up until it weighs 20-40lbs, and then walk 12 miles. Our ancestors maintained a good level of fitness, and those same sentiments carried over into the writings of the apostles.    

haBrit haHadasha (Messianic Writings/ New Testament) Examples of Fitness 

Paul’s Analogy: 

“Do you not know that those who run in a race indeed all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way as to obtain it. And everyone who competes controls himself in every way. Now they do it to receive a corruptible crown, but we for an incorruptible crown. Therefore I run accordingly, not with uncertainty. Thus I fight, not as one who beats the air. But I treat my body severely and make it my slave, lest having proclaimed to others, I myself might be rejected.” (1 Corinthians 9:24-27)

While this is not a literal example, the fact that Paul uses athletes to represent how we should live following Elohim’s will is significant. Furthermore, it would be difficult to understand the level of discipline necessary to run a race or fight without having some level of experience competing. I’ve done both, I’ve run mud runs, half-marathons, one marathon, and competed in martial arts tournaments. I know the overwhelming sensation of wanting to win, not to prove that I’m better than the others, but to prove to myself that I could endure till the end. Having a firsthand account, I’m able to appreciate and understand what Paul is saying in its entirety. So too can all those who have competed, with the hours of training and studying to enhance their abilities. It’s the same mindset I bring to following Yeshua Messiah, studying the word daily, researching, applying, spreading the good news, etc. 

Being self-disciplined enough to put your body through uncomfortable situations, such as exercising, can translate to having a more resolute stance in the faith. It also signals to others that those who follow the Messiah are healthy. Once again, I’m not saying we all need to be star athletes, but maintaining proper nutrition and exercise is something we all could use. Continue to test all things, and may the Ruach lead you into all truth.    

P.S.

Check out some of my books! Available in both print and Kindle versions.