https://crimsonthread.com/podcast/iTunes.xml en-us © 2015 Jon Behrens https://crimsonthread.com/media/1464/gssl2.png https://crimsonthread.com/podcast/iTunes.xml Spirituality & Religion Biblical concepts from a Messianic perspective. Jon Behrens Discussions of Biblical subjects from the perspective of a Torah observant Messianic community. Discussions of Biblical subjects from the perspective of a Torah observant Messianic community. Jon Behrens gently@crimsonthread.com false Tue, 09 Jan 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Introduction and historical background, Babylon had conquered Judah and taken away a number of young nobles. Daniel's character is firmly established when he decides not to eat the unclean food prescribed by the king. His position in the government is established when he is able to tell Nebuchadnezzar his dream and its interpretation. Jon Behrens Daniel was a prophet during the Babylonian exile. He was also one of the great heroes of the faith. Introduction and historical background, Babylon had conquered Judah and taken away a number of young nobles. Daniel's character is firmly established when he decides not to eat the unclean food prescribed by the king. His position in the government is established when he is able to tell Nebuchadnezzar his dream and its interpretation. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1928/dan23_1-2.mp3 41:15 Sun, 14 Jan 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion In His first major speech in Matthew, Y'shua lays out His ministry. The first section, the Beatitudes, are a restatement of Torah principles of good character updated for a first century audience. With the drift of the English language over time, some of the terms need to be updated again so that modern readers can appreciate what He said. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. January 2024 In His first major speech in Matthew, Y'shua lays out His ministry. The first section, the Beatitudes, are a restatement of Torah principles of good character updated for a first century audience. With the drift of the English language over time, some of the terms need to be updated again so that modern readers can appreciate what He said. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1929/beatitudes.mp3 19:30 Tue, 16 Jan 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion After the incident with the fiery furnace in Daniel 3, Nebuchadnezzar has a second dream. The interpretation by Daniel is a dire warning that the king is being watched and his behavior evaluated. Chapter 4, written in Aramaic, is Nebuchadnezzar's testimony about what happened to him and to the power of God. Jon Behrens Daniel was a prophet during the Babylonian exile. He was also one of the great heroes of the faith. After the incident with the fiery furnace in Daniel 3, Nebuchadnezzar has a second dream. The interpretation by Daniel is a dire warning that the king is being watched and his behavior evaluated. Chapter 4, written in Aramaic, is Nebuchadnezzar's testimony about what happened to him and to the power of God. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1930/dan24_3-4.mp3 41:32 Sun, 21 Jan 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion In the Sermon on the Mount, why does Y'shua find it necessary to assure a crowd of Jews that He will not change the Torah or the Prophets. The answer to that is in two parts, one concerns with language drift over time and the other concerns Pharisaic expectations. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. January 2024 In the Sermon on the Mount, why does Y'shua find it necessary to assure a crowd of Jews that He will not change the Torah or the Prophets. The answer to that is in two parts, one concerns with language drift over time and the other concerns Pharisaic expectations. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1931/languagedrift.mp3 22:17 Tue, 23 Jan 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Belshazzar's feast marked the end of the Babylonian Empire which was succeeded by the Medes and the Persians. Daniel rose to prominence in that empire as well. His success inspired jealousy and intrigue within the government. The other high officials conspired to frame Daniel. That did not go well for them. The king realized what was going on and God delivered Daniel from the lions. Thereupon, the conspirators and their families were fed to the lions. Jon Behrens Daniel was a prophet during the Babylonian exile. He was also one of the great heroes of the faith. Belshazzar's feast marked the end of the Babylonian Empire which was succeeded by the Medes and the Persians. Daniel rose to prominence in that empire as well. His success inspired jealousy and intrigue within the government. The other high officials conspired to frame Daniel. That did not go well for them. The king realized what was going on and God delivered Daniel from the lions. Thereupon, the conspirators and their families were fed to the lions. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1932/dan24_5-6.mp3 38:18 Sun, 28 Jan 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Daniel had a vision of four beasts, the fourth being different from the other three. That beast is exceedingly terrible. What does that beast represent and what makes it different from the other three? What does the answer to those questions mean for believers today? Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. January 2024 Daniel had a vision of four beasts, the fourth being different from the other three. That beast is exceedingly terrible. What does that beast represent and what makes it different from the other three? What does the answer to those questions mean for believers today? https://crimsonthread.com/media/1933/fourthbeast.mp3 27:58 Tue, 30 Jan 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Daniel has a vision of four beasts. These beasts correlate with the four metals on the statue in Nebuchadnezzar's dream. Where the king saw a magnificent statue representing the empires of the earth, God showed them to Daniel as dangerous animals. The vision correlates with John's vision in Revelation. Jon Behrens Daniel was a prophet during the Babylonian exile. He was also one of the great heroes of the faith. Daniel has a vision of four beasts. These beasts correlate with the four metals on the statue in Nebuchadnezzar's dream. Where the king saw a magnificent statue representing the empires of the earth, God showed them to Daniel as dangerous animals. The vision correlates with John's vision in Revelation. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1934/dan24_7.mp3 47:55 Sun, 04 Feb 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion God desires a freely chosen relationship between himself and people. The codification of that concept occurred at Sinai when He first asked Israel if they wanted to enter into a special relationship with Him. Israel answered in the affirmative and so began a relationship that has lasted for thousands of years. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. February 2024 God desires a freely chosen relationship between himself and people. The codification of that concept occurred at Sinai when He first asked Israel if they wanted to enter into a special relationship with Him. Israel answered in the affirmative and so began a relationship that has lasted for thousands of years. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1935/decalogue24.mp3 27:58 Tue, 06 Feb 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion At the end of the Babylonian Empire, Daniel was given a vision of what was to follow. The vision was puzzling to him so the Archangel Gabriel was dispatched to help him understand. Competent Bible scholars differ on the scope of that vision. Jon Behrens Daniel was a prophet during the Babylonian exile. He was also one of the great heroes of the faith. At the end of the Babylonian Empire, Daniel was given a vision of what was to follow. The vision was puzzling to him so the Archangel Gabriel was dispatched to help him understand. Competent Bible scholars differ on the scope of that vision. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1936/dan24-8.mp3 36:34 Sun, 11 Feb 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion After the Ten Commandments, Exodus goes into a long list of laws. Philosophically, laws represent someone's vision of what a good society should look like. What do these laws say about God's expectation about Israel? It is significant that He leads with laws about slavery. In this He is speaking more broadly about human power relationships. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. February 2024 After the Ten Commandments, Exodus goes into a long list of laws. Philosophically, laws represent someone's vision of what a good society should look like. What do these laws say about God's expectation about Israel? It is significant that He leads with laws about slavery. In this He is speaking more broadly about human power relationships. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1937/mishpatim24.mp3 25:46 Tue, 13 Feb 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Realizing that the 70 year exile to Babylon was nearing completion, Daniel humbly prayed for his people. His prayer was answered by Gabriel who gave him a prophecy of what was to happen to his people. During this discussion there is a chart with a summary of the standard interpretation of the 70 weeks. https://www.addeigloriam.org/commentary/ot-prophets/seventy-weeks-of-daniel.htm Jon Behrens Daniel was a prophet during the Babylonian exile. He was also one of the great heroes of the faith. Realizing that the 70 year exile to Babylon was nearing completion, Daniel humbly prayed for his people. His prayer was answered by Gabriel who gave him a prophecy of what was to happen to his people. During this discussion there is a chart with a summary of the standard interpretation of the 70 weeks. https://www.addeigloriam.org/commentary/ot-prophets/seventy-weeks-of-daniel.htm https://crimsonthread.com/media/1938/dan24_9.mp3 36:34 Thu, 15 Feb 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Peter, writing to Hebrews in the diaspora, starts his letter by explaining that Y'shua is He whom the prophets predicted and that His resurrection is the guarantee of an imperishable inheritance for them. This inheritance is kept in heaven waiting for revelation 'in the last time.' Jon Behrens Peter wrote two letters to Hebrews in the diaspora assuring them of their place in God's kingdom. Peter, writing to Hebrews in the diaspora, starts his letter by explaining that Y'shua is He whom the prophets predicted and that His resurrection is the guarantee of an imperishable inheritance for them. This inheritance is kept in heaven waiting for revelation 'in the last time.' https://crimsonthread.com/media/1597/1peter20_1-1-12.mp3 32:28 Sun, 18 Feb 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion The design of the Tabernacle speaks of God's mercy and forgiveness. It also speaks of His hopes for each of us. This is contrasted to the current religion of 'Woke' with its purification rituals - the destruction of the past. The gods of that religion have no concept of mercy or forgiveness. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. February 2024 The design of the Tabernacle speaks of God's mercy and forgiveness. It also speaks of His hopes for each of us. This is contrasted to the current religion of 'Woke' with its purification rituals - the destruction of the past. The gods of that religion have no concept of mercy or forgiveness. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1939/wokechurch.mp3 22:44 Tue, 20 Feb 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Daniel prayed and fasted for 21 days seeking to understand the oracle that had been revealed to him. The fact that it took Gabriel 21 days to burn through spiritual interference gives some insight into conflict in the unseen realm. The interpretation covered the period starting with the death of Alexander and extending to end times. Jon Behrens Daniel was a prophet during the Babylonian exile. He was also one of the great heroes of the faith. Daniel prayed and fasted for 21 days seeking to understand the oracle that had been revealed to him. The fact that it took Gabriel 21 days to burn through spiritual interference gives some insight into conflict in the unseen realm. The interpretation covered the period starting with the death of Alexander and extending to end times. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1940/dan24_10-11.mp3 43:22 Thu, 22 Feb 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Peter, writing to Hebrews reminds them that they are God's chosen people. As such, they have a duty to conduct themselves in a way befitting that status. This is especially true of Hebrews living in exile among the gentiles. Jon Behrens Peter wrote two letters to Hebrews in the diaspora assuring them of their place in God's kingdom. Peter, writing to Hebrews reminds them that they are God's chosen people. As such, they have a duty to conduct themselves in a way befitting that status. This is especially true of Hebrews living in exile among the gentiles. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1599/1peter20_1-2.mp3 38:10 Sun, 25 Feb 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion The High Priests' garments described in Ex 28 are made for glory and for beauty. Clothing can do many things. It can define a person's function or status. It can also either reveal or hide the truth about the one wearing it. That ambiguity is inherent in the Hebrew word for clothing. Inspired by the article, "Splendor in the Quest" by Rabbi Noson Weisz at Aish.com. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. February 2024 The High Priests' garments described in Ex 28 are made for glory and for beauty. Clothing can do many things. It can define a person's function or status. It can also either reveal or hide the truth about the one wearing it. That ambiguity is inherent in the Hebrew word for clothing. Inspired by the article, "Splendor in the Quest" by Rabbi Noson Weisz at Aish.com. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1941/clothing24.mp3 16:37 Tue, 27 Feb 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion The great tribulation and the end of this era. The sealing of the book. Jon Behrens Daniel was a prophet during the Babylonian exile. He was also one of the great heroes of the faith. The great tribulation and the end of this era. The sealing of the book. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1942/dan24_11-12.mp3 29:28 Thu, 29 Feb 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Writing to a minority Hebrew community within a gentile nation, Peter urges them to be respectful of the gentile government. He also urges respect for God's authority structures within their own community and within their families. This is very similar to Jeremiah's message to the exiles in Babylon - You're going to be there for a while, so seek the good of your hosts for your own benefit and peace. Jon Behrens Peter wrote two letters to Hebrews in the diaspora assuring them of their place in God's kingdom. Writing to a minority Hebrew community within a gentile nation, Peter urges them to be respectful of the gentile government. He also urges respect for God's authority structures within their own community and within their families. This is very similar to Jeremiah's message to the exiles in Babylon - You're going to be there for a while, so seek the good of your hosts for your own benefit and peace. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1601/1peter20_2-3.mp3 38:49 Sun, 03 Mar 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Idols are a perennial human problem, warned against both in the Old and New Testaments. To understand the impulse and recognize the manifestations, it may be helpful to look at idols from three perspectives: as intermediaries to God, as connections to false gods and as blindfolds to truth. All are forbidden, but for different reasons. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. March 2024 Idols are a perennial human problem, warned against both in the Old and New Testaments. To understand the impulse and recognize the manifestations, it may be helpful to look at idols from three perspectives: as intermediaries to God, as connections to false gods and as blindfolds to truth. All are forbidden, but for different reasons. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1943/idols24.mp3 24:35 Tue, 05 Mar 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion The first two chapters of Esther are basically setup for the rest of the book. Aẖashverosh (or Xerxes 1) threw a great feast for all of the administration within his empire. At the end of that feast he was humiliated by his wife. He divorced her on the spot. That set up an opening for a replacement. Esther was finally chosen and elevated to the status of queen. Esther's cousin, Mordecai discovered and exposed a plot to assassinate the king. Jon Behrens One of four accounts of Israelite behavior while in exile. Each account features a different tribe as protagonist. Mordecai, a Benjamite, is very different from Joseph, or Moses, a Levite, or Daniel of the Tribe of Judah. The first two chapters of Esther are basically setup for the rest of the book. Aẖashverosh (or Xerxes 1) threw a great feast for all of the administration within his empire. At the end of that feast he was humiliated by his wife. He divorced her on the spot. That set up an opening for a replacement. Esther was finally chosen and elevated to the status of queen. Esther's cousin, Mordecai discovered and exposed a plot to assassinate the king. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1944/esther24_1-2.mp3 36:41 Thu, 07 Mar 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion The Eyes of the Lord are watching to answer the prayers of the righteous, but ignore those of the wicked. The world is a difficult place and there will be abundant opportunities for others to mistreat you. Here Peter reminds his readers of Christ's example; having been reviled and unjustly killed, He acted to forgive and did not curse. Peter also exhorts that we should always be ready to gently explain the reason for our hope. Jon Behrens Peter wrote two letters to Hebrews in the diaspora assuring them of their place in God's kingdom. The Eyes of the Lord are watching to answer the prayers of the righteous, but ignore those of the wicked. The world is a difficult place and there will be abundant opportunities for others to mistreat you. Here Peter reminds his readers of Christ's example; having been reviled and unjustly killed, He acted to forgive and did not curse. Peter also exhorts that we should always be ready to gently explain the reason for our hope. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1603/1peter20_3.mp3 35:28 Sun, 10 Mar 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion The United States was founded and built by Christians. While the scaffolding of our society (consent of the governed, freedom of conscience, etc.) is Biblical, secularists increasingly reject Biblical morals. This stems from a Christian emphasis on rules and doctrine at the expense of love. In a sense that was Christ's criticism of the Ephesian church. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. March 2024 The United States was founded and built by Christians. While the scaffolding of our society (consent of the governed, freedom of conscience, etc.) is Biblical, secularists increasingly reject Biblical morals. This stems from a Christian emphasis on rules and doctrine at the expense of love. In a sense that was Christ's criticism of the Ephesian church. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1945/lawandlove.mp3 22:43 Tue, 12 Mar 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion The coup attempt prompted Aẖashverosh to completely revamp his court and severely restrict access to himself. Haman, who became the gatekeeper, was not mentioned in the great feast of chapter 1. The fact that he was an Amelikite, the eternal enemy of the Hebrews, is significant. Once can view his decision to destroy all Jews as payback for what Saul did to Amelik. Jon Behrens One of four accounts of Israelite behavior while in exile. Each account features a different tribe as protagonist. Mordecai, a Benjamite, is very different from Joseph, or Moses, a Levite, or Daniel of the Tribe of Judah. The coup attempt prompted Aẖashverosh to completely revamp his court and severely restrict access to himself. Haman, who became the gatekeeper, was not mentioned in the great feast of chapter 1. The fact that he was an Amelikite, the eternal enemy of the Hebrews, is significant. Once can view his decision to destroy all Jews as payback for what Saul did to Amelik. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1946/esther24_3.mp3 36:13 Thu, 14 Mar 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion The world is a difficult place in which there are trials and suffering. When the trials are for the sake of your faith, you share in Christ's suffering. This is far better than suffering because you deserve it. Jon Behrens Peter wrote two letters to Hebrews in the diaspora assuring them of their place in God's kingdom. The world is a difficult place in which there are trials and suffering. When the trials are for the sake of your faith, you share in Christ's suffering. This is far better than suffering because you deserve it. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1605/1peter20_4.mp3 35:27 Sun, 17 Mar 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion On the surface God's laws might appear simply to be organizing principles for a decent society. They certainly are that, but they are also His means for changing His children into the image of Christ. The principle here is, 'As you behave, so you become.' If one simply reads Scripture out of fear of punishment, he misses a great wealth of character changing information. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. March 2024 On the surface God's laws might appear simply to be organizing principles for a decent society. They certainly are that, but they are also His means for changing His children into the image of Christ. The principle here is, 'As you behave, so you become.' If one simply reads Scripture out of fear of punishment, he misses a great wealth of character changing information. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1947/gratitude2403.mp3 19:10 Thu, 21 Mar 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion As an elder, Peter exhorts the elders who receive his letter to be faithful in tending God's flock. In this he is echoing Y'shua who gave explicit instructions and dire warnings to those He would leave in charge of His servants. Specifically, He warns them not to use their positions for personal enrichment at the expense of the flock. Jon Behrens Peter wrote two letters to Hebrews in the diaspora assuring them of their place in God's kingdom. As an elder, Peter exhorts the elders who receive his letter to be faithful in tending God's flock. In this he is echoing Y'shua who gave explicit instructions and dire warnings to those He would leave in charge of His servants. Specifically, He warns them not to use their positions for personal enrichment at the expense of the flock. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1607/1peter20_5.mp3 28:20 Sun, 24 Mar 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Demons are a Biblical fact of life. How do they operate? How do people encounter them? What do we do about them? Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. March 2024 Demons are a Biblical fact of life. How do they operate? How do people encounter them? What do we do about them? https://crimsonthread.com/media/1948/demons24.mp3 23:51 Tue, 26 Mar 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Since Esther is not an expert in affairs of state, She would have no chance confronting Haman in the Throne Room. Instead she arranged to get the King into a situation where she had the advantage. Haman, full of hubris doesn't even see it coming. Jon Behrens One of four accounts of Israelite behavior while in exile. Each account features a different tribe as protagonist. Mordecai, a Benjamite, is very different from Joseph, or Moses, a Levite, or Daniel of the Tribe of Judah. Since Esther is not an expert in affairs of state, She would have no chance confronting Haman in the Throne Room. Instead she arranged to get the King into a situation where she had the advantage. Haman, full of hubris doesn't even see it coming. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1949/esther24_4-7.mp3 36:13 Thu, 28 Mar 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Starting from a position of faith in Messiah, Peter urges believers to work on the content of their character. It is a strong character that will keep the believer from falling into worldliness and so becoming unfruitful. It is character that makes one's election sure. Jon Behrens Peter wrote two letters to Hebrews in the diaspora assuring them of their place in God's kingdom. Starting from a position of faith in Messiah, Peter urges believers to work on the content of their character. It is a strong character that will keep the believer from falling into worldliness and so becoming unfruitful. It is character that makes one's election sure. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1609/2peter20_1.mp3 28:18 Sun, 31 Mar 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion There are ritual elements in the ordination of the High Priest that are repeated only by the procedure to cleanse a leper. That leads to some profound insights into God's plan for the redemption of His creation. (Inspired by Rabbi David Block at AlpehBeta.org) Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. March 2024 There are ritual elements in the ordination of the High Priest that are repeated only by the procedure to cleanse a leper. That leads to some profound insights into God's plan for the redemption of His creation. (Inspired by Rabbi David Block at AlpehBeta.org) https://crimsonthread.com/media/1950/ordination24.mp3 23:45 Thu, 04 Apr 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion The first paragraphs in the chapter parallel Jude speaking of false teachers who infiltrate the body and entice the gullible into some sort of sexual sin. Their motivation is greed either for money or for influence. Jon Behrens Peter wrote two letters to Hebrews in the diaspora assuring them of their place in God's kingdom. The first paragraphs in the chapter parallel Jude speaking of false teachers who infiltrate the body and entice the gullible into some sort of sexual sin. Their motivation is greed either for money or for influence. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1611/2peter20_2.mp3 30:21 Sun, 07 Apr 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion During the consecration of Aaron and his sons as priests before God, Nadab and Abihu offered profane fire before the altar and were themselves consumed by fire from heaven. Most commentaries focus on speculation about the two men's motivation in doing what was not commanded. Such speculation is completely irrelevant. What matters is what they did, not what they believed. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. April 2024 During the consecration of Aaron and his sons as priests before God, Nadab and Abihu offered profane fire before the altar and were themselves consumed by fire from heaven. Most commentaries focus on speculation about the two men's motivation in doing what was not commanded. Such speculation is completely irrelevant. What matters is what they did, not what they believed. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1951/nadavabihu24.mp3 19:10 Tue, 09 Apr 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion After the execution of Haman, the problem of his decree that all Jews be killed remained. Since that edict could not be changed, Esther and Mordecai got the King's permission to send a second decree to the effect that the Jews were allowed to defend themselves. That decree along with Mordecai's prominence effectively took the government bureaucracy out of the picture. Jon Behrens One of four accounts of Israelite behavior while in exile. Each account features a different tribe as protagonist. Mordecai, a Benjamite, is very different from Joseph, or Moses, a Levite, or Daniel of the Tribe of Judah. After the execution of Haman, the problem of his decree that all Jews be killed remained. Since that edict could not be changed, Esther and Mordecai got the King's permission to send a second decree to the effect that the Jews were allowed to defend themselves. That decree along with Mordecai's prominence effectively took the government bureaucracy out of the picture. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1952/esther24_8-10.mp3 38:33 Thu, 11 Apr 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion In describing those who creep into the congregation and lead others astray, Peter says that one of their lures is the promise of freedom. This has always been the case with sin. In promising freedom from the restrictions of God's law, it holds out the promise of being a law unto oneself. While this is tempting, it eventually leads to ruin and death. Jon Behrens Peter wrote two letters to Hebrews in the diaspora assuring them of their place in God's kingdom. In describing those who creep into the congregation and lead others astray, Peter says that one of their lures is the promise of freedom. This has always been the case with sin. In promising freedom from the restrictions of God's law, it holds out the promise of being a law unto oneself. While this is tempting, it eventually leads to ruin and death. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1613/2peter20_2-10.mp3 35:34 Sun, 14 Apr 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Biblical leprosy is regarded as a spiritually caused disease infecting those who's behavior and speech damages the community. Over and over in Scripture one is urged to listen. Listen to God; listen to one's neighbors. On social media today, the art of listening seems largely to have been lost. This is to our harm, both as individuals and as a society. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. April 2024 Biblical leprosy is regarded as a spiritually caused disease infecting those who's behavior and speech damages the community. Over and over in Scripture one is urged to listen. Listen to God; listen to one's neighbors. On social media today, the art of listening seems largely to have been lost. This is to our harm, both as individuals and as a society. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1953/tazria24.mp3 19:23 Tue, 16 Apr 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Introduction, parable of the laborers in the vineyard and the parable of the tenants. In each of these the question concerns eternal rewards and placement within the Kingdom. The disciples were curious as to what their reward would be. The laborers in the vineyard answers that question. There were also those who were trying to hijack the Kingdom. The parable of the tenants addresses their 'reward'. Jon Behrens During His final trip to Jerusalem, Y'shua told a series of parables recorded starting in Matthew 20. Each of those parables discussed who was going to be included in the Kingdom at His second coming. Introduction, parable of the laborers in the vineyard and the parable of the tenants. In each of these the question concerns eternal rewards and placement within the Kingdom. The disciples were curious as to what their reward would be. The laborers in the vineyard answers that question. There were also those who were trying to hijack the Kingdom. The parable of the tenants addresses their 'reward'. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1954/tenants.mp3 33:27 Thu, 18 Apr 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion One of the beliefs of those against whom Peter is warning is a lack of historical perspective. Their attitude seems to be that, since God has not moved within living memory, He is unlikely to care much about what people do with their lives - hence the appeal to sensuality. Peter says that God's perspective is historical, not immediate and that He does not miss anything. Jon Behrens Peter wrote two letters to Hebrews in the diaspora assuring them of their place in God's kingdom. One of the beliefs of those against whom Peter is warning is a lack of historical perspective. Their attitude seems to be that, since God has not moved within living memory, He is unlikely to care much about what people do with their lives - hence the appeal to sensuality. Peter says that God's perspective is historical, not immediate and that He does not miss anything. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1615/2peter20_3.mp3 39:24 Sun, 21 Apr 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion As we prepare to celebrate Passover, it is well to reflect on God's appointed times as, among other things, a mechanism to keep our history fresh in our minds. In the west today, our history is under systematic attack. The success of that attack has left our young people adrift, not sure who they are or what 'tribe' they belong to. That gap has been used to advance every form of evil. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. April 2024 As we prepare to celebrate Passover, it is well to reflect on God's appointed times as, among other things, a mechanism to keep our history fresh in our minds. In the west today, our history is under systematic attack. The success of that attack has left our young people adrift, not sure who they are or what 'tribe' they belong to. That gap has been used to advance every form of evil. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1955/passover24.mp3 19:06 Tue, 23 Apr 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion The Parable of the wedding feast in Matthew 21 and the great feast in Luke 14, while similar, were given to different audiences for different purposes. The emphasis in the Matthew parable is on the Second Coming and the final judgment. In the Luke parable the emphasis is on the gentiles coming into the Kingdom. Jon Behrens During His final trip to Jerusalem, Y'shua told a series of parables recorded starting in Matthew 20. Each of those parables discussed who was going to be included in the Kingdom at His second coming. The Parable of the wedding feast in Matthew 21 and the great feast in Luke 14, while similar, were given to different audiences for different purposes. The emphasis in the Matthew parable is on the Second Coming and the final judgment. In the Luke parable the emphasis is on the gentiles coming into the Kingdom. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1956/weddingbanquet.mp3 34:49 Thu, 25 Apr 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Judges begins with Israel failing to obey God. They were instructed to wipe out the inhabitants of the land yet they took Adoni-bezek captive and humiliated him. This sets the tone for the entire book. Israel was not willing to carry through with the destruction of the Canaanites et al, so they were never to have peace nor were they able to have all the land that God wanted them to possess. Jon Behrens After the passing of Joshua's generation, Israel entered the time of the Judges. As with the rest of Israelite history, this was a period of alternating apostacy and heroics. Judges begins with Israel failing to obey God. They were instructed to wipe out the inhabitants of the land yet they took Adoni-bezek captive and humiliated him. This sets the tone for the entire book. Israel was not willing to carry through with the destruction of the Canaanites et al, so they were never to have peace nor were they able to have all the land that God wanted them to possess. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1617/judges20_1-2.mp3 36:13 Sun, 28 Apr 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion When God brought Israel out of Egypt, He did not take them directly to the Promised Land. Instead He began a process of teaching the former slaves how to be free. The first stage of the process took 50 days (seven sabbaths plus one day). That pattern is repeated in the Land, but in years instead of days. Every fifty years, Israel was to do a reset, restoring everyone to his patrimony, freeing all slaves and forgiving all debts. This teaches us that liberty is not easy and must periodically be refreshed. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. April 2024 When God brought Israel out of Egypt, He did not take them directly to the Promised Land. Instead He began a process of teaching the former slaves how to be free. The first stage of the process took 50 days (seven sabbaths plus one day). That pattern is repeated in the Land, but in years instead of days. Every fifty years, Israel was to do a reset, restoring everyone to his patrimony, freeing all slaves and forgiving all debts. This teaches us that liberty is not easy and must periodically be refreshed. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1957/omer24.mp3 21:52 Tue, 30 Apr 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion In a private conversation on the Mount of Olives, the disciples ask Y'shua about the signs and timing of His return. Most of His answer is in the negative; listing events that will be disturbing but are not signs of the end. He is careful to emphasize that His coming will not be subtle and that He expects to find His servants doing what He tells them to do. Jon Behrens During His final trip to Jerusalem, Y'shua told a series of parables recorded starting in Matthew 20. Each of those parables discussed who was going to be included in the Kingdom at His second coming. In a private conversation on the Mount of Olives, the disciples ask Y'shua about the signs and timing of His return. Most of His answer is in the negative; listing events that will be disturbing but are not signs of the end. He is careful to emphasize that His coming will not be subtle and that He expects to find His servants doing what He tells them to do. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1958/vultures.mp3 37:00 Thu, 02 May 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Having failed to follow God's commandments and destroy the inhabitants of the land, Israel would never fully enjoy peace. They intermarried, followed other gods and reaped the consequences. Since they would not know peace, God set them up to study war. Jon Behrens After the passing of Joshua's generation, Israel entered the time of the Judges. As with the rest of Israelite history, this was a period of alternating apostacy and heroics. Having failed to follow God's commandments and destroy the inhabitants of the land, Israel would never fully enjoy peace. They intermarried, followed other gods and reaped the consequences. Since they would not know peace, God set them up to study war. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1619/judges20_3.mp3 25:48 Fri, 03 May 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Christ rose from the grave on First Fruits and so became the first fruits from the dead. There are a number of other resurrections in Scripture. What makes that one special? Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. April 2024 Christ rose from the grave on First Fruits and so became the first fruits from the dead. There are a number of other resurrections in Scripture. What makes that one special? https://crimsonthread.com/media/1959/resurrection24.mp3 11:21 Sun, 05 May 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion God designed humans to exercise dominion over the earth and all its creatures. That design feature also drives people to try and dominate each other, often in inappropriate or harmful ways. What does God have to say about the proper exercise and limits to power relationships between people? It turns out, quite a lot. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. May 2024 God designed humans to exercise dominion over the earth and all its creatures. That design feature also drives people to try and dominate each other, often in inappropriate or harmful ways. What does God have to say about the proper exercise and limits to power relationships between people? It turns out, quite a lot. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1960/dominion24.mp3 28:18 Tue, 07 May 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion At the end of the Olivet Discourse where Messiah tells His disciples that even He does not know the timing of His return, He recounts three parables all having to do with our behavior while He is away. The Parable of the Ten Virgins speaks of preparation. The Parable of the Talents of how we should be advancing His interest using the assets we have been given. The Sheep and Goat judgment describes how we are to treat one another. Jon Behrens During His final trip to Jerusalem, Y'shua told a series of parables recorded starting in Matthew 20. Each of those parables discussed who was going to be included in the Kingdom at His second coming. At the end of the Olivet Discourse where Messiah tells His disciples that even He does not know the timing of His return, He recounts three parables all having to do with our behavior while He is away. The Parable of the Ten Virgins speaks of preparation. The Parable of the Talents of how we should be advancing His interest using the assets we have been given. The Sheep and Goat judgment describes how we are to treat one another. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1961/talents.mp3 42:54 Thu, 09 May 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion The Canaanites held the fortress city of Hazor and controlled the Jezreel valley which was ideal chariot country. Israel was mostly dismounted infantry. So the problem was how to overcome the tactical advantage of the Canaanite army. In this, God lent a hand by bringing rain. Jon Behrens After the passing of Joshua's generation, Israel entered the time of the Judges. As with the rest of Israelite history, this was a period of alternating apostacy and heroics. The Canaanites held the fortress city of Hazor and controlled the Jezreel valley which was ideal chariot country. Israel was mostly dismounted infantry. So the problem was how to overcome the tactical advantage of the Canaanite army. In this, God lent a hand by bringing rain. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1624/judges20_4-5.mp3 32:23 Sun, 12 May 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Fashionable intellectual belief is that reality is plastic, that is it can be formed into whatever people desire it to be. That is the basis for all of the 'isms' from the 19th and 20th centuries. In contrast, God tells us that reality is elastic. That means that it can be pushed out of shape for a while, but it eventually snaps back. The farther it is stretched, the more violent the snap. In Leviticus 19-20 Moses tells Israel to keep separate from the nations and not to adopt their ways. There he gives a set of principles to insure that Israel's society stays within safe elastic limits. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. May 2024 Fashionable intellectual belief is that reality is plastic, that is it can be formed into whatever people desire it to be. That is the basis for all of the 'isms' from the 19th and 20th centuries. In contrast, God tells us that reality is elastic. That means that it can be pushed out of shape for a while, but it eventually snaps back. The farther it is stretched, the more violent the snap. In Leviticus 19-20 Moses tells Israel to keep separate from the nations and not to adopt their ways. There he gives a set of principles to insure that Israel's society stays within safe elastic limits. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1962/kedoshim24.mp3 18:30 Tue, 14 May 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion In this introduction, Paul writes of the glory and power that God exhibited in raising Christ from the dead. He also writes of the spiritual blessings and the inheritance that await believers. The Spirit being the guarantee of the inheritance promised in the fullness of time. Jon Behrens Paul's letter to the church at Ephesus speaks of mysteries hidden from the foundation of the world. It also heavily emphasizes love. In this introduction, Paul writes of the glory and power that God exhibited in raising Christ from the dead. He also writes of the spiritual blessings and the inheritance that await believers. The Spirit being the guarantee of the inheritance promised in the fullness of time. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1963/ephesians24_1.mp3 42:54 Thu, 16 May 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion With Israel once again in apostasy, the Midianites spread across the Jezreel valley during the harvest. They plundered Israel's crops and oppressed her people. God called Gideon to drive the Midianites from the land. Jon Behrens After the passing of Joshua's generation, Israel entered the time of the Judges. As with the rest of Israelite history, this was a period of alternating apostacy and heroics. With Israel once again in apostasy, the Midianites spread across the Jezreel valley during the harvest. They plundered Israel's crops and oppressed her people. God called Gideon to drive the Midianites from the land. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1626/judges20_6-7.mp3 39:37 Sun, 19 May 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion In Matthew 11, John's disciples ask if Y'shua is actually the Messiah. This is a hinge point in the book. He explains that John could have been Elijah, but both he and Y'shua are being rejected by the ruling elites. This sets up the rest of the story telling how they are willing to corrupt every organ of society to get rid of a populist trouble maker. The parallels with our own day are striking. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. May 2024 In Matthew 11, John's disciples ask if Y'shua is actually the Messiah. This is a hinge point in the book. He explains that John could have been Elijah, but both he and Y'shua are being rejected by the ruling elites. This sets up the rest of the story telling how they are willing to corrupt every organ of society to get rid of a populist trouble maker. The parallels with our own day are striking. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1964/kingdomviolence24.mp3 21:41 Tue, 21 May 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion In Christ the separation and hostility between Jews and believing gentiles has been abolished. Now gentiles can be citizens of the Commonwealth of Israel and children of God. What does it mean to be a citizen of the Commonwealth? Jon Behrens Paul's letter to the church at Ephesus speaks of mysteries hidden from the foundation of the world. It also heavily emphasizes love. In Christ the separation and hostility between Jews and believing gentiles has been abolished. Now gentiles can be citizens of the Commonwealth of Israel and children of God. What does it mean to be a citizen of the Commonwealth? https://crimsonthread.com/media/1965/ephesians24_2.mp3 36:15 Thu, 23 May 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion After driving the Midianites from the Jezreel valley, Gideon pursued them across the Jordan to finish the defeat. In that process he had to deal with two Israelite cities who refused to give him aid and with the tribe of Ephraim whose noses were out of joint. Jon Behrens After the passing of Joshua's generation, Israel entered the time of the Judges. As with the rest of Israelite history, this was a period of alternating apostacy and heroics. After driving the Midianites from the Jezreel valley, Gideon pursued them across the Jordan to finish the defeat. In that process he had to deal with two Israelite cities who refused to give him aid and with the tribe of Ephraim whose noses were out of joint. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1628/judges20_8.mp3 32:26 Sun, 26 May 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion In The Torah, God tells Israel that both the land and the Israelite people belong to Him. He specifies that there are to be several economic resets over a 50 year period. Slaves must be freed and debts cancelled every seven years and land must revert to its original owner at 50 years. In this way God assures the maximum possible economic freedom while assuring that those who fall behind will periodically get a new start. Inspired by an article by Rabbi Sacks https://aish.com/481254991/ Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. May 2024 In The Torah, God tells Israel that both the land and the Israelite people belong to Him. He specifies that there are to be several economic resets over a 50 year period. Slaves must be freed and debts cancelled every seven years and land must revert to its original owner at 50 years. In this way God assures the maximum possible economic freedom while assuring that those who fall behind will periodically get a new start. Inspired by an article by Rabbi Sacks https://aish.com/481254991/ https://crimsonthread.com/media/1966/behar24.mp3 24:52 Tue, 28 May 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion In several of his letters Paul refers to mysteries. In all cases they allude to the same thing; that gentiles are full members of the Kingdom of God and are fellow heirs. It is the case that if the spiritual rulers and authorities had realized that would happen, they never would have allowed the Crucifixion. Jon Behrens Paul's letter to the church at Ephesus speaks of mysteries hidden from the foundation of the world. It also heavily emphasizes love. In several of his letters Paul refers to mysteries. In all cases they allude to the same thing; that gentiles are full members of the Kingdom of God and are fellow heirs. It is the case that if the spiritual rulers and authorities had realized that would happen, they never would have allowed the Crucifixion. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1967/ephesians24_3.mp3 40:47 Thu, 30 May 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion After the death of Gideon, Abimelech, one of his sons by a concubine, conspired to murder the rest of his brothers in order to become king. His sole surviving brother gave an eloquent parable about a bramble bush becoming ruler over the trees. It is timeless and very much applicable to today. Jon Behrens After the passing of Joshua's generation, Israel entered the time of the Judges. As with the rest of Israelite history, this was a period of alternating apostacy and heroics. After the death of Gideon, Abimelech, one of his sons by a concubine, conspired to murder the rest of his brothers in order to become king. His sole surviving brother gave an eloquent parable about a bramble bush becoming ruler over the trees. It is timeless and very much applicable to today. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1630/judges20_9.mp3 34:56 Sun, 02 Jun 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion As God has been driven from the public square, people have lost an awareness of both His goodness and His justice. That void is filled with covetousness, bitterness, anger and resentment. We can see this played out in all of our institutions, but especially in the courts. To quote Jeremiah, "No one enters suit justly; no one goes to law honestly; they rely on empty pleas, they speak lies, they conceive mischief and give birth to iniquity." Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. June 2024 As God has been driven from the public square, people have lost an awareness of both His goodness and His justice. That void is filled with covetousness, bitterness, anger and resentment. We can see this played out in all of our institutions, but especially in the courts. To quote Jeremiah, "No one enters suit justly; no one goes to law honestly; they rely on empty pleas, they speak lies, they conceive mischief and give birth to iniquity." https://crimsonthread.com/media/1968/injustice24.mp3 23:56 Tue, 04 Jun 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Paul emphasizes unity in the community. Christ gave gifts to men that those having the gifts might use them to build a strong community around the knowledge of Christ and His Kingdom. To be healthy, the members of that community must care for one another. Jon Behrens Paul's letter to the church at Ephesus speaks of mysteries hidden from the foundation of the world. It also heavily emphasizes love. Paul emphasizes unity in the community. Christ gave gifts to men that those having the gifts might use them to build a strong community around the knowledge of Christ and His Kingdom. To be healthy, the members of that community must care for one another. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1969/ephesians24_4.mp3 33:37 Thu, 06 Jun 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion The Ammonites revive a 300 year old land dispute with Israel and invade to enforce their claims. Israel persuades Jephthah to take command and drive them out. In that process, Jephthah makes an unwise vow, the result of which is that he had no descendants. Jon Behrens After the passing of Joshua's generation, Israel entered the time of the Judges. As with the rest of Israelite history, this was a period of alternating apostacy and heroics. The Ammonites revive a 300 year old land dispute with Israel and invade to enforce their claims. Israel persuades Jephthah to take command and drive them out. In that process, Jephthah makes an unwise vow, the result of which is that he had no descendants. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1632/judges20_10-12.mp3 34:47 Sun, 09 Jun 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion It is important that the census in the wilderness emphasizes that people are to be counted by name. This reinforces that God deals with people as individuals and not as interchangeable units. In addition to the theological implications, this has practical political implications. All of the various 'ism' theories of human governance treat people in mass, as interchangeable and expendable. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. June 2024 It is important that the census in the wilderness emphasizes that people are to be counted by name. This reinforces that God deals with people as individuals and not as interchangeable units. In addition to the theological implications, this has practical political implications. All of the various 'ism' theories of human governance treat people in mass, as interchangeable and expendable. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1970/bamidbar.mp3 18:22 Tue, 11 Jun 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion In contemporary American usage, 'love' is heavily bound up with emotion and romance. Not so in the Torah or in Paul. The command to, 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' might be usefully rendered, 'Care as much about your neighbor's welfare as you do about your own.' Read in that light, Ephesians 5 becomes commentary on the Torah's instruction to love your neighbor. Jon Behrens Paul's letter to the church at Ephesus speaks of mysteries hidden from the foundation of the world. It also heavily emphasizes love. In contemporary American usage, 'love' is heavily bound up with emotion and romance. Not so in the Torah or in Paul. The command to, 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' might be usefully rendered, 'Care as much about your neighbor's welfare as you do about your own.' Read in that light, Ephesians 5 becomes commentary on the Torah's instruction to love your neighbor. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1971/ephesians24_5.mp3 34:51 Thu, 13 Jun 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion From the tribe of Dan, Samson was born to a previously barren woman. His conception was announced by a divine messenger and his manner of life was unique. He was sent by God to deliver Israel from the Philistines. Jon Behrens After the passing of Joshua's generation, Israel entered the time of the Judges. As with the rest of Israelite history, this was a period of alternating apostacy and heroics. From the tribe of Dan, Samson was born to a previously barren woman. His conception was announced by a divine messenger and his manner of life was unique. He was sent by God to deliver Israel from the Philistines. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1634/judges20_13-14.mp3 34:37 Sun, 16 Jun 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion On Shavuot God has twice appeared in dramatic fashion to give His people tools by which to live and to expand His Kingdom. The first occasion at Sinai, He gave us the Torah. The second time in the Upper Room, He gave His Spirit to comfort and guide us. These are two tremendous gifts to people whom He loves. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. June 2024 On Shavuot God has twice appeared in dramatic fashion to give His people tools by which to live and to expand His Kingdom. The first occasion at Sinai, He gave us the Torah. The second time in the Upper Room, He gave His Spirit to comfort and guide us. These are two tremendous gifts to people whom He loves. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1972/spirit24.mp3 22:41 Tue, 18 Jun 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion After giving advice on how to create and maintain a healthy, caring community, Paul concludes the letter with instructions for remaining personally effective in the great spiritual battle. In this, he draws on Isaiah and the Psalms to explain what each piece of the believer's equipment is to accomplish. Jon Behrens Paul's letter to the church at Ephesus speaks of mysteries hidden from the foundation of the world. It also heavily emphasizes love. After giving advice on how to create and maintain a healthy, caring community, Paul concludes the letter with instructions for remaining personally effective in the great spiritual battle. In this, he draws on Isaiah and the Psalms to explain what each piece of the believer's equipment is to accomplish. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1973/ephesians24_6.mp3 35:52 Thu, 20 Jun 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Samson continues to ravage the Philistines and so enable the tribe of Dan to hold the territory allotted to them by Joshua. The Philistines finally discover the source of his great strength and manage to bind Samson - to their ultimate destruction. Jon Behrens After the passing of Joshua's generation, Israel entered the time of the Judges. As with the rest of Israelite history, this was a period of alternating apostacy and heroics. Samson continues to ravage the Philistines and so enable the tribe of Dan to hold the territory allotted to them by Joshua. The Philistines finally discover the source of his great strength and manage to bind Samson - to their ultimate destruction. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1635/judges20_15-18.mp3 27:57 Sun, 23 Jun 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Numbers 10 represents the high point of the wilderness generation. The tabernacle is finished and they have set out for the Promised Land. It all starts to fall apart in Numbers 11 with the result that that generation dies in the wilderness. Similarly, in Matthew 13 Y'shua switches from plain speech to cryptic parables indicating that he is done trying to reach the Jewish leadership. The problem in both cases was the same. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. June 2024 Numbers 10 represents the high point of the wilderness generation. The tabernacle is finished and they have set out for the Promised Land. It all starts to fall apart in Numbers 11 with the result that that generation dies in the wilderness. Similarly, in Matthew 13 Y'shua switches from plain speech to cryptic parables indicating that he is done trying to reach the Jewish leadership. The problem in both cases was the same. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1974/hardheart24.mp3 22:56 Tue, 25 Jun 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Naomi, her husband and two sons, move to Moab during a famine in their home town of Bethlehem. Naomi's two sons marry Moabite women. Over time her husband and two sons all perish leaving her and her daughters-in-law as widows. Naomi decides to return home and tells the other two to return to their families. Ruth refuses and stays with Naomi as she returns to Bethlehem. Jon Behrens Redemption, leverite marriage and the reuniting of the branches of Terah's family. Naomi, her husband and two sons, move to Moab during a famine in their home town of Bethlehem. Naomi's two sons marry Moabite women. Over time her husband and two sons all perish leaving her and her daughters-in-law as widows. Naomi decides to return home and tells the other two to return to their families. Ruth refuses and stays with Naomi as she returns to Bethlehem. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1975/ruth24_1-2.mp3 36:43 Thu, 27 Jun 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion After the death of Samson, the tribe of Dan was unable to hold the territory allotted to them by Joshua and so migrated to the north. They picked up an idolatrous Levite in the process. In the next vignette, a reprise of the Sodom story, a Levite and his concubine are abused while staying the night in Gibeah. This sets up the Benjaminite Civil War. Jon Behrens After the passing of Joshua's generation, Israel entered the time of the Judges. As with the rest of Israelite history, this was a period of alternating apostacy and heroics. After the death of Samson, the tribe of Dan was unable to hold the territory allotted to them by Joshua and so migrated to the north. They picked up an idolatrous Levite in the process. In the next vignette, a reprise of the Sodom story, a Levite and his concubine are abused while staying the night in Gibeah. This sets up the Benjaminite Civil War. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1637/judges20_18-19.mp3 31:13 Sun, 30 Jun 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion In the Roman Empire during the life of Christ and the ministry of the apostles, the gospel would have been understood as the announcement of a new king. That understanding was the source of conflict with the Pharisees and with the secular authorities. The modern church, having lost that understanding of the word has allowed itself to be taken out of the political arena. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. June 2024 In the Roman Empire during the life of Christ and the ministry of the apostles, the gospel would have been understood as the announcement of a new king. That understanding was the source of conflict with the Pharisees and with the secular authorities. The modern church, having lost that understanding of the word has allowed itself to be taken out of the political arena. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1976/gospel24.mp3 20:25 Tue, 02 Jul 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Naomi instructs Ruth on how to claim the right of redemption from Boaz, her close relative. The resulting marriage brings together the descendants of Terah. It also illustrates how Christ is able to redeem all of humanity. Jon Behrens Redemption, leverite marriage and the reuniting of the branches of Terah's family. Naomi instructs Ruth on how to claim the right of redemption from Boaz, her close relative. The resulting marriage brings together the descendants of Terah. It also illustrates how Christ is able to redeem all of humanity. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1978/ruth24_3-4.mp3 41:39 Thu, 04 Jul 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion After the people of Gibeah murdered the Levite's concubine, he sent evidence to all of the tribes asking that that evil be removed. The rest of the tribes asked Benjamin to deliver up the men of Gibeah. When they refused, the resulting civil war nearly eradicated Benjamin from Israel. Jon Behrens After the passing of Joshua's generation, Israel entered the time of the Judges. As with the rest of Israelite history, this was a period of alternating apostacy and heroics. After the people of Gibeah murdered the Levite's concubine, he sent evidence to all of the tribes asking that that evil be removed. The rest of the tribes asked Benjamin to deliver up the men of Gibeah. When they refused, the resulting civil war nearly eradicated Benjamin from Israel. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1639/judges20_20-21.mp3 38:27 Sun, 07 Jul 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion In the Parable of the Weeds the common assumption is that weeds represent persecution of the faithful within the church. While that is surely part of it, perhaps more insidious are weeds that bring with them ideas that interfere with character development of the faithful. The resulting lack of virtue undermines the liberty that God wants us to have. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. July 2024 In the Parable of the Weeds the common assumption is that weeds represent persecution of the faithful within the church. While that is surely part of it, perhaps more insidious are weeds that bring with them ideas that interfere with character development of the faithful. The resulting lack of virtue undermines the liberty that God wants us to have. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1979/weedparable24.mp3 22:26 Thu, 11 Jul 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Going back to the blessing of the Sons of Jacob and then the tribes by Moses, it becomes clear that both Joseph and Judah have leadership roles within the nation. Joseph gets the blessing of Abraham and most of the attention in Gen 39 and Dt 33. After this introduction, Psalm 2 describes a three way conversation between the Father, His Son and a narrator. Jon Behrens This study was inspired by the book, "Messiah ben Joseph" by David C Mitchell. The book is a literature survey of biblical and Jewish writings that indicate there are to be two messiahs; one a descendant of Joseph and the other a descendant of Judah. Going back to the blessing of the Sons of Jacob and then the tribes by Moses, it becomes clear that both Joseph and Judah have leadership roles within the nation. Joseph gets the blessing of Abraham and most of the attention in Gen 39 and Dt 33. After this introduction, Psalm 2 describes a three way conversation between the Father, His Son and a narrator. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1744/introandps2.mp3 33:55 Sun, 14 Jul 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Parsha Chukat is almost entirely about death. There is the red heifer whose ashes are used to purify those who come into contact with death, Miriam dies, Aaron dies, Moses is told he will die in the wilderness, and deadly snakes invade the camp. Oddly enough, all of this points to the fact that death is not permanent, and although it defiles, it is not to be feared. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. July 2024 Parsha Chukat is almost entirely about death. There is the red heifer whose ashes are used to purify those who come into contact with death, Miriam dies, Aaron dies, Moses is told he will die in the wilderness, and deadly snakes invade the camp. Oddly enough, all of this points to the fact that death is not permanent, and although it defiles, it is not to be feared. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1980/cucat24.mp3 19:46 Thu, 18 Jul 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Psalms 22, 23 and 24 form a Messianic tryptic. The first describes the crucifixion and the last describes the return of the conquering king. In between is the Valley of the Shadow of death where He descended into the grave and then arose three days later. Jon Behrens This study was inspired by the book, "Messiah ben Joseph" by David C Mitchell. The book is a literature survey of biblical and Jewish writings that indicate there are to be two messiahs; one a descendant of Joseph and the other a descendant of Judah. Psalms 22, 23 and 24 form a Messianic tryptic. The first describes the crucifixion and the last describes the return of the conquering king. In between is the Valley of the Shadow of death where He descended into the grave and then arose three days later. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1746/psalms-22-23-24.mp3 36:31 Sun, 21 Jul 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion The intellectual foundations of liberalism were laid in the 19th century. The ideas of Darwin, Malthus and Marx made atheism respectable, racism 'scientific', and promised a man-made paradise. We are now seeing the dismal failure of that legacy. It appears that God has once again answered prayer and is moving to deliver us from our hubris and folly. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. July 2024 The intellectual foundations of liberalism were laid in the 19th century. The ideas of Darwin, Malthus and Marx made atheism respectable, racism 'scientific', and promised a man-made paradise. We are now seeing the dismal failure of that legacy. It appears that God has once again answered prayer and is moving to deliver us from our hubris and folly. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1981/balak24.mp3 32:32 Thu, 25 Jul 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Psalm 110 introduces the idea of a priestly king. Heretofore priests have come from Levi and kings from either Judah or Ephraim. This change and the reasons therefore are explained in the Book of Hebrews. Jon Behrens This study was inspired by the book, "Messiah ben Joseph" by David C Mitchell. The book is a literature survey of biblical and Jewish writings that indicate there are to be two messiahs; one a descendant of Joseph and the other a descendant of Judah. Psalm 110 introduces the idea of a priestly king. Heretofore priests have come from Levi and kings from either Judah or Ephraim. This change and the reasons therefore are explained in the Book of Hebrews. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1749/psalm-110.mp3 43:50 Sun, 28 Jul 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion The Bible is full of conflict - wars, interpersonal problems, spiritual battles. In the Letters to the Seven Churches, Christ makes wonderful promises to those who conquer. Those who have locked themselves up within spiritual strongholds or prisons aren't conquering anything. How do we construct these prisons and how do we tear them down? How do we triumph in life? Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. July 2024 The Bible is full of conflict - wars, interpersonal problems, spiritual battles. In the Letters to the Seven Churches, Christ makes wonderful promises to those who conquer. Those who have locked themselves up within spiritual strongholds or prisons aren't conquering anything. How did we construct these prisons and how do we tear them down? How do we triumph in life? https://crimsonthread.com/media/1982/triumph.mp3 19:04 Thu, 01 Aug 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion The group of Psalms from Ps 60 to Ps 108 heavily refer to Joseph and the Northern Kingdom of Israel. In these three Psalms we see evidence of two Messiahs, one from Joseph and the other from Judah. Jon Behrens This study was inspired by the book, "Messiah ben Joseph" by David C Mitchell. The book is a literature survey of biblical and Jewish writings that indicate there are to be two messiahs; one a descendant of Joseph and the other a descendant of Judah. The group of Psalms from Ps 60 to Ps 108 heavily refer to Joseph and the Northern Kingdom of Israel. In these three Psalms we see evidence of two Messiahs, one from Joseph and the other from Judah. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1751/psalm-80-89-92.mp3 31:06 Sun, 04 Aug 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion In Matthew 15 the Pharisees berate Y'shua because His disciples were eating with unwashed hands. He tells the crowd and his disciples that putting food into the mouth with unwashed hands does not defile, it is what comes out of the heart. How does that defilement get in there and how can we remove it? Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. August 2024 In Matthew 15 the Pharisees berate Y'shua because His disciples were eating with unwashed hands. He tells the crowd and his disciples that putting food into the mouth with unwashed hands does not defile, it is what comes out of the heart. How does that defilement get in there and how can we remove it? https://crimsonthread.com/media/1983/whatdefiles.mp3 22:15 Thu, 08 Aug 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Broadly speaking, the Bible has three sections. In each of those sections, one member of the God Head takes center stage. In the TANAK God the Father gets most of the narrative. In the four Gospels, it is Y'shua. In Acts the Holy Spirit has the emphasis. This first session gives background and goes through Pentecost. Jon Behrens Acts chronicles the ministry of the Holy Spirit and the doctrinal deliberations of the early church. Broadly speaking, the Bible has three sections. In each of those sections, one member of the God Head takes center stage. In the TANAK God the Father gets most of the narrative. In the four Gospels, it is Y'shua. In Acts the Holy Spirit has the emphasis. This first session gives background and goes through Pentecost. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1337/acts17_1-2.mp3 32:00 Sun, 11 Aug 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion The 9th day of the Hebrew month of Av has for millennia been the occasion of calamitous events for the Hebrew people. That date marks, separated by centuries, the destruction of both the first and second temples, the expulsion from England and Spain and many other such events. How do we relate to such events? What do they have to teach us? Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. August 2024 The 9th day of the Hebrew month of Av has for millennia been the occasion of calamitous events for the Hebrew people. That date marks, separated by centuries, the destruction of both the first and second temples, the expulsion from England and Spain and many other such events. How do we relate to such events? What do they have to teach us? https://crimsonthread.com/media/1984/tishabav24.mp3 25:33 Thu, 15 Aug 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Peter's speech after the giving of the Holy Spirit. Discussion of the differences in Scripture between the TANAK and quotations in the New Testament. Discussion of the similarities between the giving of the Holy Spirit and the giving of the Torah at Sinai. Jon Behrens Acts chronicles the ministry of the Holy Spirit and the doctrinal deliberations of the early church. Peter's speech after the giving of the Holy Spirit. Discussion of the differences in Scripture between the TANAK and quotations in the New Testament. Discussion of the similarities between the giving of the Holy Spirit and the giving of the Torah at Sinai. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1339/acts17_2-3.mp3 35:49 Sun, 18 Aug 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion There are two major religions at war with the western world and Christianity. Sadly both of these religions have managed to disguise the religious nature of the conflict. Islam is bent on world domination, yet it has managed to conceal that fact by posing as an oppressed minority. Liberalism is also a religion with its roots going back to Plato, yet it has managed to cast itself as secular and religiously neutral. In order to survive, Christianity must engage both of these religions as what they are - implacably hostile. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. August 2024 There are two major religions at war with the western world and Christianity. Sadly both of these religions have managed to disguise the religious nature of the conflict. Islam is bent on world domination, yet it has managed to conceal that fact by posing as an oppressed minority. Liberalism is also a religion with its roots going back to Plato, yet it has managed to cast itself as secular and religiously neutral. In order to survive, Christianity must engage both of these religions as what they are - implacably hostile. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1985/religiouswar24.mp3 22:46 Thu, 22 Aug 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion People's need for an intermediary with God discussed in the context of 'The Prophet' promised in Deuteronomy 18. Peter and John's first arrest and appearance before the Jerusalem authorities. Discussion of their citation from Psalm 2. Jon Behrens Acts chronicles the ministry of the Holy Spirit and the doctrinal deliberations of the early church. People's need for an intermediary with God discussed in the context of 'The Prophet' promised in Deuteronomy 18. Peter and John's first arrest and appearance before the Jerusalem authorities. Discussion of their citation from Psalm 2. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1342/acts17_3-4.mp3 32:00 Sun, 25 Aug 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion In Deuteronomy God describes His covenant with Israel as one of love. He describes the statutes that He provides as being for the benefit of the beloved and says that Israel's faithfully following them will result in abundant blessing. Starting in the Garden, it has been Satan's goal to lead God's people away from God's way to life and blessing and into destruction and death. That nefarious goal is still in full effect today as we see nations being let into ruin. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. August 2024 In Deuteronomy God describes His covenant with Israel as one of love. He describes the statutes that He provides as being for the benefit of the beloved and says that Israel's faithfully following them will result in abundant blessing. Starting in the Garden, it has been Satan's goal to lead God's people away from God's way to life and blessing and into destruction and death. That nefarious goal is still in full effect today as we see nations being let into ruin. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1986/godslove24.mp3 19:59 Thu, 29 Aug 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion The first church lived communally, holding everything in common. This may have been done in anticipation of the quick return of Y'shua and the expectation that there was no need to save for the future. Peter and John's second arrest and appearance before the Temple authorities. Jon Behrens Acts chronicles the ministry of the Holy Spirit and the doctrinal deliberations of the early church. The first church lived communally, holding everything in common. This may have been done in anticipation of the quick return of Y'shua and the expectation that there was no need to save for the future. Peter and John's second arrest and appearance before the Temple authorities. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1343/acts17_4-5.mp3 37:31 Sun, 01 Sep 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion In Deuteronomy 11 Moses explains to Israel that their future is in their own hands. If they faithfully follow God's instructions, they will be blessed. If not, they will experience curses. In the same way, the meaning of the events in your life is yours to interpret and to act upon. You may choose to interpret unfavorable events as an indicator that you area victim or you may choose to overcome and plan a better future. You get to choose. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. August 2024 In Deuteronomy 11 Moses explains to Israel that their future is in their own hands. If they faithfully follow God's instructions, they will be blessed. If not, they will experience curses. In the same way, the meaning of the events in your life is yours to interpret and to act upon. You may choose to interpret unfavorable events as an indicator that you area victim or you may choose to overcome and plan a better future. You get to choose. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1987/meaning24.mp3 18:57 Thu, 05 Sep 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion When Stephen is falsely accused of blasphemy he defends himself before the council in Jerusalem. The record of his testimony provides compelling evidence of the accuracy of the Book of Acts. Jon Behrens Acts chronicles the ministry of the Holy Spirit and the doctrinal deliberations of the early church. When Stephen is falsely accused of blasphemy he defends himself before the council in Jerusalem. The record of his testimony provides compelling evidence of the accuracy of the Book of Acts. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1345/acts17_6-7.mp3 27:50 Sun, 08 Sep 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion In Parsha Shoftim Moses describes the duties of and limitations on judges, officers and kings. In this he makes it clear that, except for a king who is chosen by God, they are to be appointed by Israel. He also makes it clear that their first priority is to act according to the Torah and that they must not regard themselves as somehow 'better' than their brothers. Reading this passage along side of the US Declaration of Independence and Constitution, it is very clear where the founding fathers got the design for the Federal Government. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. September 2024 In Parsha Shoftim Moses describes the duties of and limitations on judges, officers and kings. In this he makes it clear that, except for a king who is chosen by God, they are to be appointed by Israel. He also makes it clear that their first priority is to act according to the Torah and that they must not regard themselves as somehow 'better' than their brothers. Reading this passage along side of the US Declaration of Independence and Constitution, it is very clear where the founding fathers got the design for the Federal Government. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1988/shoftim24.mp3 23:32 Thu, 12 Sep 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Philip's ministry in Samaria and his conversion of the Ethiopian Eunuch. The conversion of Paul on the road to Damascus. Jon Behrens Acts chronicles the ministry of the Holy Spirit and the doctrinal deliberations of the early church. Philip's ministry in Samaria and his conversion of the Ethiopian Eunuch. The conversion of Paul on the road to Damascus. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1347/acts17_8-9.mp3 32:38 Sun, 15 Sep 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion The month preceding the fall feasts is an excellent time to reflect over the past year and think about what you want to accomplish in the next. In this, 2 Peter has a helpful progressive list of character traits that lead to Godliness. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. September 2024 The month preceding the fall feasts is an excellent time to reflect over the past year and think about what you want to accomplish in the next. In this, 2 Peter has a helpful progressive list of character traits that lead to Godliness. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1989/elul24.mp3 22:47 Thu, 19 Sep 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Food and table fellowship has always been a stumbling block between Jews and gentiles. Peter's vision of the sheet descending from Heaven showed him that diet does not disqualify gentiles from the Kingdom of God. Jon Behrens Acts chronicles the ministry of the Holy Spirit and the doctrinal deliberations of the early church. Food and table fellowship has always been a stumbling block between Jews and gentiles. Peter's vision of the sheet descending from Heaven showed him that diet does not disqualify gentiles from the Kingdom of God. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1348/acts17_10-11.mp3 29:06 Sun, 22 Sep 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion There three ceremonies prescribed in Deuteronomy 26 and 27 that set up the Deuteronomy 28 recitation of blessings and curses in the covenant made with the generation going into the land. Each of these ceremonies is designed to maintain perspective as Israel prospers in their new land. When they neglected them, the nation descended into idolatry, injustice, violence and finally exile. We today are on the same path for the same reasons. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. September 2024 There three ceremonies prescribed in Deuteronomy 26 and 27 that set up the Deuteronomy 28 recitation of blessings and curses in the covenant made with the generation going into the land. Each of these ceremonies is designed to maintain perspective as Israel prospers in their new land. When they neglected them, the nation descended into idolatry, injustice, violence and finally exile. We today are on the same path for the same reasons. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1990/kitavo24.mp3 19:27 Tue, 24 Sep 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion When Israel was exiled to Babylon, Jeremiah prophesied that they would be there for 70 years. In 538 BC the Persian emperor, Cyrus issued an edict which allowed the exiles to return to their land and rebuild the Temple. Ezra is the chronical of that rebuilding. Jon Behrens Ezra and Nehemiah chronical the return of the Jews from the Babylonian exile and the rebuilding of the Temple and the city of Jerusalem. When Israel was exiled to Babylon, Jeremiah prophesied that they would be there for 70 years. In 538 BC the Persian emperor, Cyrus issued an edict which allowed the exiles to return to their land and rebuild the Temple. Ezra is the chronical of that rebuilding. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1991/ezra24_1-2.mp3 31:37 Thu, 26 Sep 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Peter is arrested by Herod and kept in prison pending display before an hostile crowd. An angel delivers him from captivity. Jon Behrens Acts chronicles the ministry of the Holy Spirit and the doctrinal deliberations of the early church. Peter is arrested by Herod and kept in prison pending display before an hostile crowd. An angel delivers him from captivity. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1349/acts17_11-13.mp3 36:42 Sun, 29 Sep 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion The world and the culture is awash with death. Moses, in Dt 30 presents life and death as a choice and recommends that we choose life. In a sense that choice is the central point of the entire Bible. All the law and the prophets tell us what behavior leads to life and what leads to death, both temporal and eternal. Choose wisely. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. September 2024 The world and the culture is awash with death. Moses, in Dt 30 presents life and death as a choice and recommends that we choose life. In a sense that choice is the central point of the entire Bible. All the law and the prophets tell us what behavior leads to life and what leads to death, both temporal and eternal. Choose wisely. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1993/chooselife24.mp3 21:01 Tue, 01 Oct 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Once the exiles had arrived in Israel, they began by building the altar and celebrating the Sabbath and the feasts. When they had laid the foundation for the Temple, the Samaritans asked to join the effort. When the Jews refused, the Samaritans petitioned the Persian king to stop the project. Jon Behrens Ezra and Nehemiah chronical the return of the Jews from the Babylonian exile and the rebuilding of the Temple and the city of Jerusalem. Once the exiles had arrived in Israel, they began by building the altar and celebrating the Sabbath and the feasts. When they had laid the foundation for the Temple, the Samaritans asked to join the effort. When the Jews refused, the Samaritans petitioned the Persian king to stop the project. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1994/ezra24_3-4.mp3 36:32 Thu, 03 Oct 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Standards for gentile behavior and salvation were burning questions in the early Church. The Council of Jerusalem debated and answered those questions. Jon Behrens Acts chronicles the ministry of the Holy Spirit and the doctrinal deliberations of the early church. Standards for gentile behavior and salvation were burning questions in the early Church. The Council of Jerusalem debated and answered those questions. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1351/acts17_14-15.mp3 33:15 Sun, 06 Oct 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Yom Teruah can be translated as a day of cheering. In Revelation when the seventh trumpet sounds there is cheering in Heaven because "the kingdom of the world has become the Kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ." At that time Christ will begin purging the world of His enemies, those who worship false gods. The impulse to idolatry has not gone away. What does it look like today when people in the church turn to other gods in the same way that Israel did in the past? Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. October 2024 Yom Teruah can be translated as a day of cheering. In Revelation when the seventh trumpet sounds there is cheering in Heaven because "the kingdom of the world has become the Kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ." At that time Christ will begin purging the world of His enemies, those who worship false gods. The impulse to idolatry has not gone away. What does it look like today when people in the church turn to other gods in the same way that Israel did in the past? https://crimsonthread.com/media/1995/haazinu24.mp3 20:50 Tue, 08 Oct 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion After the hiatus caused by the Samaritan's letter to Cambyses, the prophets Haggai and Zechariah received word from God that they should resume. Simultaneously, half a continent away, Zerubbabel was given permission and resources by Darius. Jon Behrens Ezra and Nehemiah chronical the return of the Jews from the Babylonian exile and the rebuilding of the Temple and the city of Jerusalem. After the hiatus caused by the Samaritan's letter to Cambyses, the prophets Haggai and Zechariah received word from God that they should resume. Simultaneously, half a continent away, Zerubbabel was given permission and resources by Darius. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1996/ezra24_5-6.mp3 33:16 Thu, 10 Oct 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Paul and Barnabas separate in a dispute over John Mark. Paul and Silas carry the Jerusalem Council's letter to the churches in Asia. They travel to Macedonia. The Philippian jailer is saved. Jon Behrens Acts chronicles the ministry of the Holy Spirit and the doctrinal deliberations of the early church. Paul and Barnabas separate in a dispute over John Mark. Paul and Silas carry the Jerusalem Council's letter to the churches in Asia. They travel to Macedonia. The Philippian jailer is saved. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1352/acts17_15-17.mp3 32:11 Sun, 13 Oct 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion The Day of Atonement is perhaps the most Christian of the Torah's appointed times. On that day, the High Priest goes into the presence of God and obtains atonement for Israel and cleansing of their sins. Other than being present for the ceremony, the people do nothing. This should also be a day when one examines his life and begins the process of teshuvah or repentance. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. October 2024 The Day of Atonement is perhaps the most Christian of the Torah's appointed times. On that day, the High Priest goes into the presence of God and obtains atonement for Israel and cleansing of their sins. Other than being present for the ceremony, the people do nothing. This should also be a day when one examines his life and begins the process of teshuvah or repentance. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1997/yomkippur24.mp3 21:52 Tue, 15 Oct 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion After the death of Darius, his son Artaxerxes continued in his father's benevolence to the Jews. He sent Ezra from Babylon to Jerusalem with the brief to establish judges and magistrates in Israel, Syria and Phoenicia, teaching all people the law of Moses. In aid of this, the king provided him with a vast amount of silver and gold to be used in temple worship. Jon Behrens Ezra and Nehemiah chronical the return of the Jews from the Babylonian exile and the rebuilding of the Temple and the city of Jerusalem. After the death of Darius, his son Artaxerxes continued in his father's benevolence to the Jews. He sent Ezra from Babylon to Jerusalem with the brief to establish judges and magistrates in Israel, Syria and Phoenicia, teaching all people the law of Moses. In aid of this, the king provided him with a vast amount of silver and gold to be used in temple worship. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1998/ezra24_7-9.mp3 34:57 Thu, 17 Oct 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Paul's speech in Athens about the shrine to the Unknown God. The introduction of Apollos. The baptism of repentance as opposed to baptism in the name of Y'shua. Jon Behrens Acts chronicles the ministry of the Holy Spirit and the doctrinal deliberations of the early church. Paul's speech in Athens about the shrine to the Unknown God. The introduction of Apollos. The baptism of repentance as opposed to baptism in the name of Y'shua. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1353/acts17_17-19.mp3 37:45 Sun, 20 Oct 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion At Succot we are reminded that we are sojourners in this world and are looking forward to the next. Jeremiah gives some advice to the Jews who were 'sojourning' in Babylon: "seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the Lord on its behalf, for in its welfare you will find your welfare." So also we are called to engage with the political and civic life of the place we are sent; even as we eagerly await the coming of Y'shua and the establishment of His kingdom. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. October 2024 At Succot we are reminded that we are sojourners in this world and are looking forward to the next. Jeremiah gives some advice to the Jews who were 'sojourning' in Babylon: "seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the Lord on its behalf, for in its welfare you will find your welfare." So also we are called to engage with the political and civic life of the place we are sent; even as we eagerly await the coming of Y'shua and the establishment of His kingdom. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1999/succot24.mp3 19:15 Tue, 22 Oct 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Upon Ezra's return to Jerusalem, he discovered that the people of Israel had intermarried with the pagan nations in the land. This was contrary to the Law of Moses and has always been a way to draw Israel away from God. Ezra gathered all the men of Israel and took an oath from them to put away the foreign wives. After some time had passed, Nehemiah received permission to rebuild the city walls. Jon Behrens Ezra and Nehemiah chronical the return of the Jews from the Babylonian exile and the rebuilding of the Temple and the city of Jerusalem. Upon Ezra's return to Jerusalem, he discovered that the people of Israel had intermarried with the pagan nations in the land. This was contrary to the Law of Moses and has always been a way to draw Israel away from God. Ezra gathered all the men of Israel and took an oath from them to put away the foreign wives. After some time had passed, Nehemiah received permission to rebuild the city walls. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2000/ezra24_10-nehemiah24_1-2.mp3 32:39 Thu, 24 Oct 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Stops on Paul's route back to Israel. In the manner of all religious hucksters, the silversmiths in Ephesus tried to elevate their economic interests to the status of a conflict between piety and blasphemy. Jon Behrens Acts chronicles the ministry of the Holy Spirit and the doctrinal deliberations of the early church. Stops on Paul's route back to Israel. In the manner of all religious hucksters, the silversmiths in Ephesus tried to elevate their economic interests to the status of a conflict between piety and blasphemy. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1355/acts17_19-20.mp3 29:13 Sun, 27 Oct 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Having travelled secretly to Jerusalem for Succot in order to avoid arrest, Y'shua made a very dramatic appearance on the last day. The high point of the day was the water pouring ceremony at the altar. There He announced that those who believed in him would have rivers of 'living water' flow from their hearts. He so startled everyone that the guards didn't arrest Him. He went on the following day to announce that He was the light of world. Both water and light are consistent themes beginning in Genesis. They also figure prominently on the last day of the feast. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. October 2024 Having travelled secretly to Jerusalem for Succot in order to avoid arrest, Y'shua made a very dramatic appearance on the last day. The high point of the day was the water pouring ceremony at the altar. There He announced that those who believed in him would have rivers of 'living water' flow from their hearts. He so startled everyone that the guards didn't arrest Him. He went on the following day to announce that He was the light of world. Both water and light are consistent themes beginning in Genesis. They also figure prominently on the last day of the feast. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2001/simchattorah24.mp3 22:41 Tue, 29 Oct 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Having received permission and resources from the King, Nehemiah proceeded to Jerusalem with an armed guard. After secretly surveying the state of the city, he gathered the returned exiles and set them to building the wall. The opposition to the project from the nations around him was so fierce that he was compelled to sacrifice some efficiency in building to obtain military security. Jon Behrens Ezra and Nehemiah chronical the return of the Jews from the Babylonian exile and the rebuilding of the Temple and the city of Jerusalem. Having received permission and resources from the King, Nehemiah proceeded to Jerusalem with an armed guard. After secretly surveying the state of the city, he gathered the returned exiles and set them to building the wall. The opposition to the project from the nations around him was so fierce that he was compelled to sacrifice some efficiency in building to obtain military security. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2002/nehemiah24_2-4.mp3 30:20 Thu, 31 Oct 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion On his way to Jerusalem for the final time, Paul bids farewell to the Ephesian church. The subject of his remarks echos the first of the Kingdom Parables in Matthew. They also presage his pastoral Letter to the Ephesians as well as Y'shua's Letter in Revelation 2. These four passages of Scripture address the same subject from different time perspectives. Jon Behrens Acts chronicles the ministry of the Holy Spirit and the doctrinal deliberations of the early church. On his way to Jerusalem for the final time, Paul bids farewell to the Ephesian church. The subject of his remarks echos the first of the Kingdom Parables in Matthew. They also presage his pastoral Letter to the Ephesians as well as Y'shua's Letter in Revelation 2. These four passages of Scripture address the same subject from different time perspectives. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1357/acts17_20.mp3 29:42 Sun, 03 Nov 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Over the years, the Christianity has become less and less effective in shaping the culture and effecting national politics. This is largely because the church has ignored or deprecated those parts of Scripture that it finds 'inconvenient'. Scripture, from Genesis to Revelation, is a unified whole and avoiding parts of it robs it of power and influence. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. November 2024 Over the years, the Christianity has become less and less effective in shaping the culture and effecting national politics. This is largely because the church has ignored or deprecated those parts of Scripture that it finds 'inconvenient'. Scripture, from Genesis to Revelation, is a unified whole and avoiding parts of it robs it of power and influence. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2003/noach24.mp3 20:14 Tue, 05 Nov 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion As construction of the wall progressed, the common people complained that they were unable to feed their families because the Jewish elites were loan sharking. Since this sort of practice was one of the major reasons for Judah having gone into exile, Nehemiah put a stop to the practice and made the elites pledge to return all of the interest and collateral that they had gained. Also, as with Ezra, the Samaritans and the Amorites tried to stop the wall building project. Jon Behrens Ezra and Nehemiah chronical the return of the Jews from the Babylonian exile and the rebuilding of the Temple and the city of Jerusalem. As construction of the wall progressed, the common people complained that they were unable to feed their families because the Jewish elites were loan sharking. Since this sort of practice was one of the major reasons for Judah having gone into exile, Nehemiah put a stop to the practice and made the elites pledge to return all of the interest and collateral that they had gained. Also, as with Ezra, the Samaritans and the Amorites tried to stop the wall building project. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2004/nehemiah24_5-6.mp3 38:05 Thu, 07 Nov 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion In Jerusalem, Paul meets with James and the elders who discuss how to address the rumors that Paul is teaching a new religion. They decide that he will consecrate himself along with others who are coming to the end of their Nazarite vows and that he will publicly sacrifice in the Temple. This includes a discussion of Paul's attitude toward Moses. Jon Behrens Acts chronicles the ministry of the Holy Spirit and the doctrinal deliberations of the early church. In Jerusalem, Paul meets with James and the elders who discuss how to address the rumors that Paul is teaching a new religion. They decide that he will consecrate himself along with others who are coming to the end of their Nazarite vows and that he will publicly sacrifice in the Temple. This includes a discussion of Paul's attitude toward Moses. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1362/acts17_21-22.mp3 28:47 Sun, 10 Nov 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion The story of Abraham marks the beginning of God's establishing personal relationships with people. Before Abraham Scripture simply records events. With Abraham we get much more personal and emotional information about His relationship with God. It is also significant that in order to develop that relationship God removed him from the big city and made him live in a tent. The patterns developed in this story have profound meaning for believers today. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. November 2024 The story of Abraham marks the beginning of God's establishing personal relationships with people. Before Abraham Scripture simply records events. With Abraham we get much more personal and emotional information about His relationship with God. It is also significant that in order to develop that relationship God removed him from the big city and made him live in a tent. The patterns developed in this story have profound meaning for believers today. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2005/lechlecha24.mp3 19:19 Thu, 14 Nov 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion After Paul's arrest in Jerusalem, he goes before the council where he causes a riot when he asserts that his only crime is believing in the resurrection. He is spirited away by night to Caesarea where he appears before Felix, the Roman governor. Jon Behrens Acts chronicles the ministry of the Holy Spirit and the doctrinal deliberations of the early church. After Paul's arrest in Jerusalem, he goes before the council where he causes a riot when he asserts that his only crime is believing in the resurrection. He is spirited away by night to Caesarea where he appears before Felix, the Roman governor. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1365/acts17_22-24.mp3 30:14 Sun, 17 Nov 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion In Genesis 22 Abraham is called upon by God to sacrifice his son Isaac on Mount Moriah. This, of course prefigures the Crucifixion in nearly every detail. In addition it says something profound about the relationship between children and their father. Contrary to every other society at the time, fathers do not own their children. (Inspired by Rabbi Sacks, "The Binding of Isaac" on Aish.com) Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. November 2024 In Genesis 22 Abraham is called upon by God to sacrifice his son Isaac on Mount Moriah. This, of course prefigures the Crucifixion in nearly every detail. In addition it says something profound about the relationship between children and their father. Contrary to every other society at the time, fathers do not own their children. (Inspired by Rabbi Sacks, "The Binding of Isaac" on Aish.com) https://crimsonthread.com/media/2006/binding24.mp3 18:41 Tue, 19 Nov 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Although the wall was complete, Jerusalem had yet to be rebuilt and populated. At Yom Terruah, the people gathered from the surrounding villages and Ezra read the Book of the Law aloud. The people, understanding the fall feasts, celebrated Succot at the appointed time and then gathered together to confess their sins in much the same spirit as Daniel 9. They then prepared to renew the covenant with God. Jon Behrens Ezra and Nehemiah chronical the return of the Jews from the Babylonian exile and the rebuilding of the Temple and the city of Jerusalem. Although the wall was complete, Jerusalem had yet to be rebuilt and populated. At Yom Terruah, the people gathered from the surrounding villages and Ezra read the Book of the Law aloud. The people, understanding the fall feasts, celebrated Succot at the appointed time and then gathered together to confess their sins in much the same spirit as Daniel 9. They then prepared to renew the covenant with God. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2007/nehemiah24_7-9.mp3 41:01 Thu, 21 Nov 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion In his final event before being sent to Rome, Paul appears before Agrippa. He tells of his conversion to the Way and demonstrates from the Scriptures that Y'shua is the Messiah. Jon Behrens Acts chronicles the ministry of the Holy Spirit and the doctrinal deliberations of the early church. In his final event before being sent to Rome, Paul appears before Agrippa. He tells of his conversion to the Way and demonstrates from the Scriptures that Y'shua is the Messiah. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1367/acts17_25-27.mp3 33:19 Sun, 24 Nov 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion When Abraham sent his servant to get a bride for his son, Isaac, the servant paused at the well in Haran and sought the Lord's favor in his mission. In this prayer, he asked that God show chesed to his master and guide him to the right young woman. Chesed, often translated as 'loving kindness,' is a frequently mentioned characteristic of God. As those who are created in His image, we also should cultivate that character trait; both for our benefit and for the health of the community. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. November 2024 When Abraham sent his servant to get a bride for his son, Isaac, the servant paused at the well in Haran and sought the Lord's favor in his mission. In this prayer, he asked that God show chesed to his master and guide him to the right young woman. Chesed, often translated as 'loving kindness,' is a frequently mentioned characteristic of God. As those who are created in His image, we also should cultivate that character trait; both for our benefit and for the health of the community. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2008/chesed24.mp3 15:06 Tue, 26 Nov 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion As the wall was completed, the leadership of the returning Jews formally renewed their covenant with God preparatory to a dedication ceremony for the wall. After that, Nehemiah returned to Persia for a time. When he returned, he found that the Jews had already backslidden. They were working on Shabbat, not giving the Levites their portion of the tithes and continued intermarriage with the pagan inhabitants of the land. To top it off, the priests had moved an Ammonite into the Temple. Jon Behrens Ezra and Nehemiah chronical the return of the Jews from the Babylonian exile and the rebuilding of the Temple and the city of Jerusalem. As the wall was completed, the leadership of the returning Jews formally renewed their covenant with God preparatory to a dedication ceremony for the wall. After that, Nehemiah returned to Persia for a time. When he returned, he found that the Jews had already backslidden. They were working on Shabbat, not giving the Levites their portion of the tithes and continued intermarriage with the pagan inhabitants of the land. To top it off, the priests had moved an Ammonite into the Temple. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2009/nehemiah24_10-13.mp3 31:25 Thu, 28 Nov 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Paul takes his final sea voyage to Rome. The ship is caught in a storm and wrecked on the island of Malta. The book ends with Paul continuing his desire to bring his brother Jews to a knowledge of Y'shua. Jon Behrens Acts chronicles the ministry of the Holy Spirit and the doctrinal deliberations of the early church. Paul takes his final sea voyage to Rome. The ship is caught in a storm and wrecked on the island of Malta. The book ends with Paul continuing his desire to bring his brother Jews to a knowledge of Y'shua. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1457/acts17_27-28.mp3 28:21 Sun, 01 Dec 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion The world is a difficult and often dangerous place. It is easy to focus on one's problems and become ungrateful. That is what happened to Esau when he despised his birthright. Learning to look for the good in every situation can radically improve your attitude and your situation. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. November 2024 The world is a difficult and often dangerous place. It is easy to focus on one's problems and become ungrateful. That is what happened to Esau when he despised his birthright. Learning to look for the good in every situation can radically improve your attitude and your situation. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2010/gratitude24-11.mp3 18:01 Tue, 03 Dec 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Discussion of end times perspectives and why the Tanak can provide context and commentary on the symbols in Revelation. Chapter 1, the Risen Lord. His explanation of the lampstand and the seven stars. Jon Behrens Revelation is a record of a vision given to John by Christ. He was instructed to communicate that vision to the entire church. Discussion of end times perspectives and why the Tanak can provide context and commentary on the symbols in Revelation. Chapter 1, the Risen Lord. His explanation of the lampstand and the seven stars. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2011/rev24_1.mp3 33:55 Thu, 05 Dec 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Introduction to the book and to the terrain. This book describes military operations which are dictated in part by the shape of the ground. Joshua sends spies into Jerico where they are sheltered by Rahab. In return for her help, Rahab extracts a promise of protection from Joshua's spies. Jon Behrens The first book after the Torah, Joshua describes the conquest of the land. In many ways it is repeated in Revelation when Y'shua comes to conquer the Earth. You will want a map in hand when you listen to this series. Introduction to the book and to the terrain. This book describes military operations which are dictated in part by the shape of the ground. Joshua sends spies into Jerico where they are sheltered by Rahab. In return for her help, Rahab extracts a promise of protection from Joshua's spies. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1378/joshua17_1-2.mp3 33:33 Sun, 08 Dec 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion The story of Jacob's flight from his brother and stay in Haran is one of character transformation. He begins as a bit of a "momma's boy" who is willing to take advantage of both his brother and his father. At the end of the story, he is a man of substance who voluntarily reconciles with his brother and symbolically returns the blessing he had stolen 20 years earlier. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. December 2024 The story of Jacob's flight from his brother and stay in Haran is one of character transformation. He begins as a bit of a "momma's boy" who is willing to take advantage of both his brother and his father. At the end of the story, he is a man of substance who voluntarily reconciles with his brother and symbolically returns the blessing he had stolen 20 years earlier. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2012/jacob24.mp3 17:18 Tue, 10 Dec 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Christ dictated letters to seven churches in Asia Minor. These letters correlate with the seven Kingdom Parables in Matthew and with Paul's pastoral letters to seven churches. While these were seven actual churches active at the time of John's vision, there are other ways to look at the letters. The symbols used in the letters appear elsewhere in the TANAK. Jon Behrens Revelation is a record of a vision given to John by Christ. He was instructed to communicate that vision to the entire church. Christ dictated letters to seven churches in Asia Minor. These letters correlate with the seven Kingdom Parables in Matthew and with Paul's pastoral letters to seven churches. While these were seven actual churches active at the time of John's vision, there are other ways to look at the letters. The symbols used in the letters appear elsewhere in the TANAK. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2013/rev24_2.mp3 37:04 Thu, 12 Dec 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Crossing the Jordan represents a bookend to the time in the wilderness which began with the crossing of the Red Sea. In Exodus they left enemy territory and 'the world' behind; here they are reentering the world and facing a time of war and conquest. Jon Behrens The first book after the Torah, Joshua describes the conquest of the land. In many ways it is repeated in Revelation when Y'shua comes to conquer the Earth. You will want a map in hand when you listen to this series. Crossing the Jordan represents a bookend to the time in the wilderness which began with the crossing of the Red Sea. In Exodus they left enemy territory and 'the world' behind; here they are reentering the world and facing a time of war and conquest. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1379/joshua17_3-5.mp3 26:47 Tue, 17 Dec 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Letters to Sardis, Philadelphia and Laodicea. These churches form the second half of the chiasm described in last week's recording. Discussion of each church's strengths and weaknesses. Jon Behrens Revelation is a record of a vision given to John by Christ. He was instructed to communicate that vision to the entire church. Letters to Sardis, Philadelphia and Laodicea. These churches form the second half of the chiasm described in last week's recording. Discussion of each church's strengths and weaknesses. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2014/rev24_3.mp3 38:10 Thu, 19 Dec 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Because of the presence and favor of God, Joshua does several things that are very unorthodox from a military point of view. As an example, no normal commander would cross a river into enemy territory and then incapacitate his troops for three days via circumcision. Jon Behrens The first book after the Torah, Joshua describes the conquest of the land. In many ways it is repeated in Revelation when Y'shua comes to conquer the Earth. You will want a map in hand when you listen to this series. Because of the presence and favor of God, Joshua does several things that are very unorthodox from a military point of view. As an example, no normal commander would cross a river into enemy territory and then incapacitate his troops for three days via circumcision. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1380/joshua17_5-6.mp3 24:34 Sun, 22 Dec 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion The Genesis stories of Jacob, Joseph and Judah feature repetitions of similar incidents. For example, Jacob deceives his father by wearing Esau's clothes and bringing him a meal of goat instead of the venison he was expecting. Later his own sons deceive him by bringing him Joseph's coat stained with the blood of a goat. Is this merely cosmic retribution, or is God doing something else? Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. December 2024 The Genesis stories of Jacob, Joseph and Judah feature repetitions of similar incidents. For example, Jacob deceives his father by wearing Esau's clothes and bringing him a meal of goat instead of the venison he was expecting. Later his own sons deceive him by bringing him Joseph's coat stained with the blood of a goat. Is this merely cosmic retribution, or is God doing something else? https://crimsonthread.com/media/2015/groundhogday.mp3 17:16 Tue, 24 Dec 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion John is invited into the Heavenly Throne Room where he sees God and the Lamb. The arrangement of that heavenly venue is mirrored in the stellar constellations. The ceremony John witnesses is the delivery of a sealed scroll to the Lamb - the only one in creation who is worthy to receive and open it. Jon Behrens Revelation is a record of a vision given to John by Christ. He was instructed to communicate that vision to the entire church. John is invited into the Heavenly Throne Room where he sees God and the Lamb. The arrangement of that heavenly venue is mirrored in the stellar constellations. The ceremony John witnesses is the delivery of a sealed scroll to the Lamb - the only one in creation who is worthy to receive and open it. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2016/rev24_4-5.mp3 37:54 Thu, 26 Dec 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Unbeknownst to Joshua, Achan had disobeyed God and taken spoil from Jericho. This caused Israel to be routed in what should have been a minor skirmish at Ai. Correction of that sin was expensive indeed. Jon Behrens The first book after the Torah, Joshua describes the conquest of the land. In many ways it is repeated in Revelation when Y'shua comes to conquer the Earth. You will want a map in hand when you listen to this series. Unbeknownst to Joshua, Achan had disobeyed God and taken spoil from Jericho. This caused Israel to be routed in what should have been a minor skirmish at Ai. Correction of that sin was expensive indeed. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1382/joshua17_7-8.mp3 56:46 Sun, 29 Dec 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion We study the events around Hanukkah because there is nothing new under the Sun. In the behavior of the Greeks, the Hellenized Jews and the faithful Jews we can see all of the things that are going on today. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. December 2024 We study the events around Hanukkah because there is nothing new under the Sun. In the behavior of the Greeks, the Hellenized Jews and the faithful Jews we can see all of the things that are going on today. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2017/chanukah24.mp3 23:33 Tue, 31 Dec 2024 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Once it was determined that the Lamb was worthy to take the scroll and open its seals, the unsealing process began. Since the scroll represents the legal title to the earth, as each seal is removed, there is a corresponding reaction on the earth. The first six seals seem to be sequential in time and then there is an out of sequence vignette where the 144,000 are sealed. Jon Behrens Revelation is a record of a vision given to John by Christ. He was instructed to communicate that vision to the entire church. Once it was determined that the Lamb was worthy to take the scroll and open its seals, the unsealing process began. Since the scroll represents the legal title to the earth, as each seal is removed, there is a corresponding reaction on the earth. The first six seals seem to be sequential in time and then there is an out of sequence vignette where the 144,000 are sealed. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2018/rev24_6-8.mp3 35:44 Thu, 02 Jan 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Gibeon sits astride the Saddle of Benjamin and as such is strategically vital to the conquest and holding of the Land of Israel. Joshua knew this as did the Canaanite kings in the south. When Gibeon made a covenant with Israel it became the center of a major battle during which God fought for Israel. Jon Behrens The first book after the Torah, Joshua describes the conquest of the land. In many ways it is repeated in Revelation when Y'shua comes to conquer the Earth. You will want a map in hand when you listen to this series. Gibeon sits astride the Saddle of Benjamin and as such is strategically vital to the conquest and holding of the Land of Israel. Joshua knew this as did the Canaanite kings in the south. When Gibeon made a covenant with Israel it became the center of a major battle during which God fought for Israel. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1383/joshua17_9-10.mp3 26:20 Sun, 05 Jan 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Hope and faith are different. Hope is what we use to set the goals in our lives. Faith enables the bringing of those goals to fruition. As we face a new administration, there is reason for hope. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. January 2025 Hope and faith are different. Hope is what we use to set the goals in our lives. Faith enables the bringing of those goals to fruition. As we face a new administration, there is reason for hope. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2019/hope25.mp3 16:28 Tue, 07 Jan 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Now that the Lamb has been authenticated as the rightful King of the Earth, the trumpets herald His coming. At His first advent, He came in peace riding on a donkey. This time He comes on a white horse to conquer. In that sense, the trumpets can be looked upon as an artillery barrage preparatory to an invasion. Jon Behrens Revelation is a record of a vision given to John by Christ. He was instructed to communicate that vision to the entire church. Now that the Lamb has been authenticated as the rightful King of the Earth, the trumpets herald His coming. At His first advent, He came in peace riding on a donkey. This time He comes on a white horse to conquer. In that sense, the trumpets can be looked upon as an artillery barrage preparatory to an invasion. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2020/rev24_8-10.mp3 35:25 Thu, 09 Jan 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion After driving the Canaanite kings off of the Saddle of Benjamin, Joshua conquered the southern half of the land. He then turned north where the enemy had a great advantage in chariots as well as terrain favorable to mounted warfare. Joshua negated that advantage by striking them in their mountain assembly area. Jon Behrens The first book after the Torah, Joshua describes the conquest of the land. In many ways it is repeated in Revelation when Y'shua comes to conquer the Earth. You will want a map in hand when you listen to this series. After driving the Canaanite kings off of the Saddle of Benjamin, Joshua conquered the southern half of the land. He then turned north where the enemy had a great advantage in chariots as well as terrain favorable to mounted warfare. Joshua negated that advantage by striking them in their mountain assembly area. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1385/joshua17_10-11.mp3 24:29 Sun, 12 Jan 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion As David lay on his death bed, he gave his son instructions to kill Joab, the commander of the army. The events that made that advisable were set in motion years earlier by the sin of David himself. When David committed adultery with Uriah's wife, Bathsheba, he used Joab to cover up the crime by killing Uriah. That led to a sequence of events that almost cost David his throne and did result in the death of two of his sons. God forgave David, but He did not vacate the earthly consequences. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. January 2025 As David lay on his death bed, he gave his son instructions to kill Joab, the commander of the army. The events that made that advisable were set in motion years earlier by the sin of David himself. When David committed adultery with Uriah's wife, Bathsheba, he used Joab to cover up the crime by killing Uriah. That led to a sequence of events that almost cost David his throne and did result in the death of two of his sons. God forgave David, but He did not vacate the earthly consequences. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2021/davidshitlist.mp3 20:25 Tue, 14 Jan 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion When God's two witnesses have been raised from the dead, those who are capable of giving Him glory do so. Then the seventh trumpet sounds and heaven's reoccupation of the earth begins. At some point Satan is expelled from heaven and embarks on a persecution, first of the Jews, and then of all believers. Jon Behrens Revelation is a record of a vision given to John by Christ. He was instructed to communicate that vision to the entire church. When God's two witnesses have been raised from the dead, those who are capable of giving Him glory do so. Then the seventh trumpet sounds and heaven's reoccupation of the earth begins. At some point Satan is expelled from heaven and embarks on a persecution, first of the Jews, and then of all believers. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2022/rev24_11-12.mp3 33:15 Thu, 16 Jan 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion The end of the initial phase of the conquest of the Land. The Eastern tribes are released to return to their inheritance where they build a memorial altar. This is misunderstood by the Western tribes and causes them to threaten war. Joshua renews the covenant and gives his people a final charge. Jon Behrens The first book after the Torah, Joshua describes the conquest of the land. In many ways it is repeated in Revelation when Y'shua comes to conquer the Earth. You will want a map in hand when you listen to this series. The end of the initial phase of the conquest of the Land. The Eastern tribes are released to return to their inheritance where they build a memorial altar. This is misunderstood by the Western tribes and causes them to threaten war. Joshua renews the covenant and gives his people a final charge. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1386/joshua17_22ff.mp3 36:45 Sun, 19 Jan 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Comparing Matthew 24 with Revelation 13 and 14, it is obvious that there are still things to come from an eschatological perspective. The first beast represents human government and the second a human religion that gives a spiritual imprimatur to the bestial government. The Scriptural purpose for telling us these things is to provide perspective on how we should be living as the end times approach. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. January 2025 Comparing Matthew 24 with Revelation 13 and 14, it is obvious that there are still things to come from an eschatological perspective. The first beast represents human government and the second a human religion that gives a spiritual imprimatur to the bestial government. The Scriptural purpose for telling us these things is to provide perspective on how we should be living as the end times approach. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2023/mat24beasts.mp3 23:55 Tue, 21 Jan 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Two beasts, one rising out of the sea and the other out of the earth. The first beast represents human government that demands fealty from all people to the point even of worship. The second beast is false religion which lends the first beast legitimacy. The 144,000 and the final notice from God to all the earth that He is the only one to be worshiped. Jon Behrens Revelation is a record of a vision given to John by Christ. He was instructed to communicate that vision to the entire church. Two beasts, one rising out of the sea and the other out of the earth. The first beast represents human government that demands fealty from all people to the point even of worship. The second beast is false religion which lends the first beast legitimacy. The 144,000 and the final notice from God to all the earth that He is the only one to be worshiped. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2024/rev24_13-14.mp3 33:46 Thu, 23 Jan 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion During his final journey to Jerusalem, Y'shua told a series of parables. The first and last of these provide answers to the question, 'What shall I do to inherit eternal life?' Jon Behrens During His journey to Jerusalem that lead to His crucifixion, Yeshua told a series of parables which are recorded in the Book of Luke. During his final journey to Jerusalem, Y'shua told a series of parables. The first and last of these provide answers to the question, 'What shall I do to inherit eternal life?' https://crimsonthread.com/media/1245/inheriteternallife.mp3 34:41 Sun, 26 Jan 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion The Olivet Discourse in Matthew 24 and 25 describes what will happen at Christ's return. In that briefing, there are four parables describing what He expects His followers to be doing while He is away. These parables cover four different subjects. It is important to notice that everyone in each parable is a believer and that each parable describes the case where some of those believers are rejected. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. January 2025 The Olivet Discourse in Matthew 24 and 25 describes what will happen at Christ's return. In that briefing, there are four parables describing what He expects His followers to be doing while He is away. These parables cover four different subjects. It is important to notice that everyone in each parable is a believer and that each parable describes the case where some of those believers are rejected. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2025/virgins25.mp3 16:30 Tue, 28 Jan 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion After the three angels broadcast their messages to the whole earth, the earth is reaped. First the good harvest which would be gathered to God and then the wild grapes which go into the winepress of God's wrath. That is followed by the seven bowls of the wrath of God. Jon Behrens Revelation is a record of a vision given to John by Christ. He was instructed to communicate that vision to the entire church. After the three angels broadcast their messages to the whole earth, the earth is reaped. First the good harvest which would be gathered to God and then the wild grapes which go into the winepress of God's wrath. That is followed by the seven bowls of the wrath of God. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2026/rev24_14-16.mp3 28:59 Thu, 30 Jan 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion In the Luke travel narrative, Y'shua teaches his disciples about prayer. This includes the Lord's Prayer, the parable of the Friend at Midnight, the Unjust Judge and the Publican and the Pharisee. Jon Behrens During His journey to Jerusalem that lead to His crucifixion, Yeshua told a series of parables which are recorded in the Book of Luke. In the Luke travel narrative, Y'shua teaches his disciples about prayer. This includes the Lord's Prayer, the parable of the Friend at Midnight, the Unjust Judge and the Publican and the Pharisee. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1246/yonprayer1.mp3 20:22 Sun, 02 Feb 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion In the Olivet Discourse, the master entrusts three of his servants with his resources and then goes on a long journey. Two of the servants double his money, the third simply holds and returns it to him upon his return. It would be an error to assume that God's standard is 'double my money' or you're going to be rejected. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. February 2025 In the Olivet Discourse, the master entrusts three of his servants with his resources and then goes on a long journey. Two of the servants double his money, the third simply holds and returns it to him upon his return. It would be an error to assume that God's standard is 'double my money' or you're going to be rejected. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2027/talents25.mp3 22:47 Tue, 04 Feb 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion After the seven bowls of wrath, we get the fate of Babylon, the spiritual capitol of the first beast. This is the imperial city of the great world government that is arrayed against God and His people. Jon Behrens Revelation is a record of a vision given to John by Christ. He was instructed to communicate that vision to the entire church. After the seven bowls of wrath, we get the fate of Babylon, the spiritual capitol of the first beast. This is the imperial city of the great world government that is arrayed against God and His people. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2028/rev24_17-18.mp3 33:51 Thu, 06 Feb 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Second half of Y'shua's discourse on prayer containing the Unjust Judge and the Publican and the Pharisee. Jon Behrens During His journey to Jerusalem that lead to His crucifixion, Yeshua told a series of parables which are recorded in the Book of Luke. Second half of Y'shua's discourse on prayer containing the Unjust Judge and the Publican and the Pharisee. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1247/yonprayer2.mp3 22:59 Sun, 09 Feb 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion When God took Israel out of Egypt, He did not take the short route to Canaan lest the people change their minds and return to Egypt. Instead, He took them into the wilderness beyond the point where they could return without dying of thirst or starvation. In this sense, He burned the bridge back to Egypt so they had no choice but to continue on to freedom. So too, many of us have bridges that need to be burned so we can move forward to be what God desires. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. February 2025 When God took Israel out of Egypt, He did not take the short route to Canaan lest the people change their minds and return to Egypt. Instead, He took them into the wilderness beyond the point where they could return without dying of thirst or starvation. In this sense, He burned the bridge back to Egypt so they had no choice but to continue on to freedom. So too, many of us have bridges that need to be burned so we can move forward to be what God desires. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2029/burnbridge.mp3 16:31 Tue, 11 Feb 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion At the destruction of Babylon, all of heaven rejoices that justice has been served and God has taken vengeance on the great whore who has deceived the nations. The arrival of the King and His reign over the earth for a thousand year. The Great White throne. Jon Behrens Revelation is a record of a vision given to John by Christ. He was instructed to communicate that vision to the entire church. At the destruction of Babylon, all of heaven rejoices that justice has been served and God has taken vengeance on the great whore who has deceived the nations. The arrival of the King and His reign over the earth for a thousand year. The Great White throne. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2030/rev24_19-20.mp3 32:45 Thu, 13 Feb 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Starting in Luke 11, Y'shua speaks about the Kingdom of God. At first, He speaks of the state of the Kingdom as He finds it. He then speaks of the Kingdom as it will be in the future. Jon Behrens During His journey to Jerusalem that lead to His crucifixion, Yeshua told a series of parables which are recorded in the Book of Luke. Starting in Luke 11, Y'shua speaks about the Kingdom of God. At first, He speaks of the state of the Kingdom as He finds it. He then speaks of the Kingdom as it will be in the future. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1248/signsofthekingdom.mp3 26:13 Sun, 16 Feb 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion In the Decalogue both the first and the tenth commandments forbid alien gods. The first commandment is obvious - thou shall have no other gods before me. The tenth - thou shall not covet - not quite so much. Why, then does Paul equate covetousness with idol worship? Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. February 2025 In the Decalogue both the first and the tenth commandments forbid alien gods. The first commandment is obvious - thou shall have no other gods before me. The tenth - thou shall not covet - not quite so much. Why, then does Paul equate covetousness with idol worship? https://crimsonthread.com/media/2031/covetousness25.mp3 18:02 Tue, 18 Feb 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion The new heaven and the new earth where God finally dwells among men. The New Jerusalem and homage of the nations. The tree of life restored to man. Jon Behrens Revelation is a record of a vision given to John by Christ. He was instructed to communicate that vision to the entire church. The new heaven and the new earth where God finally dwells among men. The New Jerusalem and homage of the nations. The tree of life restored to man. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2032/rev24_21-22.mp3 29:13 Thu, 20 Feb 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Conflict between Y'shua and the Pharisees and lawyers. Discussion of the six woes he pronounces against them in Luke 11. Jon Behrens During His journey to Jerusalem that lead to His crucifixion, Yeshua told a series of parables which are recorded in the Book of Luke. Conflict between Y'shua and the Pharisees and lawyers. Discussion of the six woes he pronounces against them in Luke 11. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1249/conflictwithpharisees6woes.mp3 25:11 Sun, 23 Feb 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion After the ten commandments, God gives several chapters of detailed statutes. These laws are intended to implement God's view of how a good society should behave. Following those laws is for our own good and does not generate blessings. Rather blessings come from a relationship with God. We know from history that that relationship can be damaged to the point the He will withdraw those blessings. Similarly, there are two competing visions for the United States. Proponents of each vision are attempting to enact laws to shape society toward their vision. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. February 2025 After the ten commandments, God gives several chapters of detailed statutes. These laws are intended to implement God's view of how a good society should behave. Following those laws is for our own good and does not generate blessings. Rather blessings come from a relationship with God. We know from history that that relationship can be damaged to the point the He will withdraw those blessings. Similarly, there are two competing visions for the United States. Proponents of each vision are attempting to enact laws to shape society toward their vision. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2033/mishpatim25.mp3 18:12 Tue, 25 Feb 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Written after the Babylonian exile, Malachi tells of returning Jews and their priests who have the form of temple worship without either reverence or enthusiasm. Jon Behrens Malachi, the final book in the Hebrew Bible, precedes 400 years of prophetic silence. Written after the Babylonian exile, Malachi tells of returning Jews and their priests who have the form of temple worship without either reverence or enthusiasm. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2034/mal25_1-2.mp3 32:56 Thu, 27 Feb 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion In the context of his pronouncing woes over the Pharisees, in Luke 12 Y'shua discusses the proper attitude toward the wealth of this world. Jon Behrens During His journey to Jerusalem that lead to His crucifixion, Yeshua told a series of parables which are recorded in the Book of Luke. In the context of his pronouncing woes over the Pharisees, in Luke 12 Y'shua discusses the proper attitude toward the wealth of this world. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1250/conflictovermoneyproperattitude.mp3 21:50 Sun, 02 Mar 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion In Exodus 25, God tells Moses to request contributions of materials to build the Tabernacle from everyone "whose heart moves him". In this, God gave Israel the gift of being able to contribute something instead of merely receiving. The act of giving allows one to participate in what God is doing in the world. As such, it is a great gift. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. March 2025 In Exodus 25, God tells Moses to request contributions of materials to build the Tabernacle from everyone "whose heart moves him". In this, God gave Israel the gift of being able to contribute something instead of merely receiving. The act of giving allows one to participate in what God is doing in the world. As such, it is a great gift. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2035/giving25.mp3 15:21 Tue, 04 Mar 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion The retuning exiles, having completed the Temple and the rebuilding of Jerusalem, have fallen into cynicism because the Messianic age has not started. They see the wicked prosper and wonder what the benefit of walking with God really is. God answers. Jon Behrens Malachi, the final book in the Hebrew Bible, precedes 400 years of prophetic silence. The retuning exiles, having completed the Temple and the rebuilding of Jerusalem, have fallen into cynicism because the Messianic age has not started. They see the wicked prosper and wonder what the benefit of walking with God really is. God answers. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2036/mal25_3-4.mp3 28:52 Thu, 06 Mar 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion The Luke 16 discourse on God and mammon is a continuation of the running conflict Y'shua had with the Pharisees over money. The Pharisees, being lovers of money, had a warped attitude toward the things of this world. Jon Behrens During His journey to Jerusalem that lead to His crucifixion, Yeshua told a series of parables which are recorded in the Book of Luke. The Luke 16 discourse on God and mammon is a continuation of the running conflict Y'shua had with the Pharisees over money. The Pharisees, being lovers of money, had a warped attitude toward the things of this world. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1252/conflictovermoneymammon.mp3 24:40 Sun, 09 Mar 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion The Hebrew word 'beged' means both clothing and betrayal. This duality is important because we use clothing to communicate - status, sexuality, position, power, etc. Realizing that clothing can lie and betray is an important part of navigating in society. The High Priest's vestments are thus a statement that can either be true of the man or false. So too with others who wear the robes of authority. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. March 2025 The Hebrew word 'beged' means both clothing and betrayal. This duality is important because we use clothing to communicate - status, sexuality, position, power, etc. Realizing that clothing can lie and betray is an important part of navigating in society. The High Priest's vestments are thus a statement that can either be true of the man or false. So too with others who wear the robes of authority. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2037/beged25.mp3 16:56 Tue, 11 Mar 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion The writer first establishes from the Psalms that the Christ is not an angel and is, in fact, the Son of God. He also establishes that He is fully human and has experienced what all men experience - including death. As one of us, He is able to understand what we go through and treat us sympathetically. Jon Behrens Written to Hebrews, the book assumes a knowledge of the Hebrew Bible. As such, it presents Christ entirely from that perspective. The writer first establishes from the Psalms that the Christ is not an angel and is, in fact, the Son of God. He also establishes that He is fully human and has experienced what all men experience - including death. As one of us, He is able to understand what we go through and treat us sympathetically. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2038/heb25_1-2.mp3 35:35 Thu, 13 Mar 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion In Luke 12 and Luke 16 Y'shua gives a discourse on what He expects of the managers over His kingdom during the time of His absence. In Luke 12 the master is away at a wedding and will return at a time the servants do not expect. In Luke 16 the parable of the dishonest manager turns on the manager's estimation of the character of the master. Jon Behrens During His journey to Jerusalem that lead to His crucifixion, Yeshua told a series of parables which are recorded in the Book of Luke. In Luke 12 and Luke 16 Y'shua gives a discourse on what He expects of the managers over His kingdom during the time of His absence. In Luke 12 the master is away at a wedding and will return at a time the servants do not expect. In Luke 16 the parable of the dishonest manager turns on the manager's estimation of the character of the master. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1253/kingdomstewardship.mp3 45:40 Sun, 16 Mar 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Between smashing the first set of tablets because of the Golden Calf and ascending the mountain again to get the second set, Moses spent 40 days in the tent of meeting outside the camp. What was the purpose of that time and what did Moses accomplish? (The song referred to is "The Family of God.") Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. March 2025 Between smashing the first set of tablets because of the Golden Calf and ascending the mountain again to get the second set, Moses spent 40 days in the tent of meeting outside the camp. What was the purpose of that time and what did Moses accomplish? (The song referred to is "The Family of God.") https://crimsonthread.com/media/2039/familyofgod.mp3 16:54 Tue, 18 Mar 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Just as God rested from His work in creation, there is a rest available to the people of God. This rest is from fear and striving to be good enough to merit salvation. Once we trust in Him, we may enter His rest. This is in contrast to the wilderness generation who were not able to muster that trust and so perished without entering the land. Jon Behrens Written to Hebrews, the book assumes a knowledge of the Hebrew Bible. As such, it presents Christ entirely from that perspective. Just as God rested from His work in creation, there is a rest available to the people of God. This rest is from fear and striving to be good enough to merit salvation. Once we trust in Him, we may enter His rest. This is in contrast to the wilderness generation who were not able to muster that trust and so perished without entering the land. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2040/heb25_3-5.mp3 35:39 Thu, 20 Mar 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion In Luke 13 and 14 the parables of the fig tree and the great banquet. Y'shua, acting as a prophet, tells Israel that she is unfruitful and that she has spurned the invitation of God to His great banquet. Jon Behrens During His journey to Jerusalem that lead to His crucifixion, Yeshua told a series of parables which are recorded in the Book of Luke. In Luke 13 and 14 the parables of the fig tree and the great banquet. Y'shua, acting as a prophet, tells Israel that she is unfruitful and that she has spurned the invitation of God to His great banquet. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1254/callofthekingdomtoisrael.mp3 31:16 Sun, 23 Mar 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Being made in the image of God, people have the ability to be creative. In building the Tabernacle in the wilderness, many things were specified by God because deviation would have compromised His message. Other things, however, were open for interpretation by the artisans who worked on the project. In allowing this, Israel became more than passive recipients of God's provision. They could now be active contributors to God's purposes. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. March 2025 Being made in the image of God, people have the ability to be creative. In building the Tabernacle in the wilderness, many things were specified by God because deviation would have compromised His message. Other things, however, were open for interpretation by the artisans who worked on the project. In allowing this, Israel became more than passive recipients of God's provision. They could now be active contributors to God's purposes. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2041/delightgod.mp3 16:58 Tue, 25 Mar 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Having established that Christ is not an angel, but is the human son of God, and that He is able to understand our frailties, the writer then goes on to establish His priesthood. In this, since He is not a descendant of Aaron, the writer must use a different priestly order; that of Melchizedek. Jon Behrens Written to Hebrews, the book assumes a knowledge of the Hebrew Bible. As such, it presents Christ entirely from that perspective. Having established that Christ is not an angel, but is the human son of God, and that He is able to understand our frailties, the writer then goes on to establish His priesthood. In this, since He is not a descendant of Aaron, the writer must use a different priestly order; that of Melchizedek. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2042/heb25_5-7.mp3 35:40 Thu, 27 Mar 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion In this set of Luke parables, Y'shua contrasts the Kingdom of God as it existed in first century Israel with what it should be. Healing on the Sabbath, the parables of the Mustard Seed and the Leaven. Jon Behrens During His journey to Jerusalem that lead to His crucifixion, Yeshua told a series of parables which are recorded in the Book of Luke. In this set of Luke parables, Y'shua contrasts the Kingdom of God as it existed in first century Israel with what it should be. Healing on the Sabbath, the parables of the Mustard Seed and the Leaven. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1259/thenatureofthekingdom.mp3 30:23 Sun, 30 Mar 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion When the Tabernacle in the wilderness was completed Moses had the Levites present an accounting of all the gold, silver and bronze used in its construction - down to the shekel. Moses was perhaps the most powerful and trusted human in the world because he spoke with God face to face. The fact that such a man as Moses felt it necessary to give a public accounting sends a strong message that it is vital for all those in positions of public trust to be honest and transparent in their handling of public funds. This speaks to the corruption being uncovered in our government today. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. March 2025 When the Tabernacle in the wilderness was completed Moses had the Levites present an accounting of all the gold, silver and bronze used in its construction - down to the shekel. Moses was perhaps the most powerful and trusted human in the world because he spoke with God face to face. The fact that such a man as Moses felt it necessary to give a public accounting sends a strong message that it is vital for all those in positions of public trust to be honest and transparent in their handling of public funds. This speaks to the corruption being uncovered in our government today. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2043/publicintegrity.mp3 22:25 Tue, 01 Apr 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion The Covenant made as Sinai was defective in that one of the parties - Israel - was unable to live according to its terms. That made a New Covenant necessary. Although God's terms are the same for both covenants, the new one is to be written on the heart instead of on tablets of stone. The New Covenant like the one at Sinai must be ratified with the blood of a sacrifice. In this case, the blood was that of the Messiah. Jon Behrens Written to Hebrews, the book assumes a knowledge of the Hebrew Bible. As such, it presents Christ entirely from that perspective. The Covenant made as Sinai was defective in that one of the parties - Israel - was unable to live according to its terms. That made a New Covenant necessary. Although God's terms are the same for both covenants, the new one is to be written on the heart instead of on tablets of stone. The New Covenant like the one at Sinai must be ratified with the blood of a sacrifice. In this case, the blood was that of the Messiah. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2044/heb25_8-9.mp3 32:51 Thu, 03 Apr 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion This parable, where a father has broken relationships with both of his sons, may be a metaphor for Ephraim and Judah. The younger son has been gone for millennia. What will be the attitude of the older brother when he returns? Jon Behrens During His journey to Jerusalem that lead to His crucifixion, Yeshua told a series of parables which are recorded in the Book of Luke. This parable, where a father has broken relationships with both of his sons, may be a metaphor for Ephraim and Judah. The younger son has been gone for millennia. What will be the attitude of the older brother when he returns? https://crimsonthread.com/media/1323/prodigalson16.mp3 11:53 Sun, 06 Apr 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion The Gospel accounts after the Resurrection are different. Each one gives added instructions for the believer while we await His return. Taken together they form a complete mission statement for the believer - what to do, where to do it, what resources are available, etc. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. April 2025 The Gospel accounts after the Resurrection are different. Each one gives added instructions for the believer while we await His return. Taken together they form a complete mission statement for the believer - what to do, where to do it, what resources are available, etc. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2045/resurrection25.mp3 16:27 Tue, 08 Apr 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion The sin offerings made in the tabernacle were only for unintentional sin and had to be repeated annually, because the people's hearts were not changed. Under the New Covenant God's law will be written on hearts of flesh instead of on tablets of stone. Thus, the offering Messiah made with His own blood needs only to have been done one time, since those cleansed by that offering will have had their hearts circumcised. Jon Behrens Written to Hebrews, the book assumes a knowledge of the Hebrew Bible. As such, it presents Christ entirely from that perspective. The sin offerings made in the tabernacle were only for unintentional sin and had to be repeated annually, because the people's hearts were not changed. Under the New Covenant God's law will be written on hearts of flesh instead of on tablets of stone. Thus, the offering Messiah made with His own blood needs only to have been done one time, since those cleansed by that offering will have had their hearts circumcised. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2046/heb25_10.mp3 34:51 Thu, 10 Apr 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Paul's letter appears to be a theological corrective for something going on within the church in Colossae. The exact nature of the problem is not made clear, but it has to do with the person of Christ and with competing philosophies. In this first chapter he makes it very clear who the Messiah is and what He has done and is doing. Jon Behrens There is a problem with theological confusion within the church at Colossae. Paul's letter focuses on the person of Christ and on the fact that anything beyond the Gospel is wrong. Paul's letter appears to be a theological corrective for something going on within the church in Colossae. The exact nature of the problem is not made clear, but it has to do with the person of Christ and with competing philosophies. In this first chapter he makes it very clear who the Messiah is and what He has done and is doing. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1835/col22_1.mp3 32:14 Sun, 13 Apr 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Nations, like people have a life cycle - birth, growth, productivity and death. For Israel, Passover was its birth. Since then it has gone through several life cycles, always being reborn because God has had His hand on them. The United States, like Israel, was also explicitly formed on Biblical principles. We are now undergoing a civilizational crisis. Pray that the current turmoil represents birth pains. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. April 2025 Nations, like people have a life cycle - birth, growth, productivity and death. For Israel, Passover was its birth. Since then it has gone through several life cycles, always being reborn because God has had His hand on them. The United States, like Israel, was also explicitly formed on Biblical principles. We are now undergoing a civilizational crisis. Pray that the current turmoil represents birth pains. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2048/passover25.mp3 19:34 Tue, 15 Apr 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Faith is the spiritual quality that allows us to act in the present. Since the future is unknown, we must have faith that the thing we are about to do will have the results we want. This especially applies to our relationship with God. He has promised certain things and we are to live our lives in the trust that those promises are reliable. Jon Behrens Written to Hebrews, the book assumes a knowledge of the Hebrew Bible. As such, it presents Christ entirely from that perspective. Faith is the spiritual quality that allows us to act in the present. Since the future is unknown, we must have faith that the thing we are about to do will have the results we want. This especially applies to our relationship with God. He has promised certain things and we are to live our lives in the trust that those promises are reliable. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2049/heb25_11-12.mp3 35:30 Thu, 17 Apr 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Paul warns the church not to be taken captive by vain philosophy and man made religion. He also says that because of Christ, the record of our offenses against God have been nailed to the cross. Many take that to mean that the Torah has been nailed to the cross and voided. This is not correct. Jon Behrens There is a problem with theological confusion within the church at Colossae. Paul's letter focuses on the person of Christ and on the fact that anything beyond the Gospel is wrong. Paul warns the church not to be taken captive by vain philosophy and man made religion. He also says that because of Christ, the record of our offenses against God have been nailed to the cross. Many take that to mean that the Torah has been nailed to the cross and voided. This is not correct. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1837/col22_2.mp3 38:34 Sun, 20 Apr 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion The 50 days between Firstfruits and Shavuot is a replay and a rehearsal of the process by which God takes us from slavery to liberty in Him. For the Israelites, it was literal slavery in Egypt. For us it is the slavery to sin and the flesh. Liberty is not learned over night, it is a process that takes time. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. April 2025 The 50 days between Firstfruits and Shavuot is a replay and a rehearsal of the process by which God takes us from slavery to liberty in Him. For the Israelites, it was literal slavery in Egypt. For us it is the slavery to sin and the flesh. Liberty is not learned over night, it is a process that takes time. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2050/omer25.mp3 21:39 Tue, 22 Apr 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion After having described the often unpleasant process of character development, the author returns to the theme that this world is not our permanent home. Rather, there is a better and permanent home for those who are disciples of Y'shua. Jon Behrens Written to Hebrews, the book assumes a knowledge of the Hebrew Bible. As such, it presents Christ entirely from that perspective. After having described the often unpleasant process of character development, the author returns to the theme that this world is not our permanent home. Rather, there is a better and permanent home for those who are disciples of Y'shua. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2051/heb25_12-13.mp3 24:16 Thu, 24 Apr 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Having dealt with the doctrinal errors that had been reported to him, Paul switches to reinforcing the basic principles of life in the Kingdom of God. These include authority and order within the family and the community as well as general principles of human relationships. The letter concludes with personal greetings. Jon Behrens There is a problem with theological confusion within the church at Colossae. Paul's letter focuses on the person of Christ and on the fact that anything beyond the Gospel is wrong. Having dealt with the doctrinal errors that had been reported to him, Paul switches to reinforcing the basic principles of life in the Kingdom of God. These include authority and order within the family and the community as well as general principles of human relationships. The letter concludes with personal greetings. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1839/col22_3-4.mp3 24:26 Sun, 27 Apr 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Mark chapter 1 contains an outline of Y'shua's entire ministry as well as that given to His apostles after His resurrection. The outline boils down to: preach the Gospel, heal the sick, cast out demons. Demons are barely mentioned in the TANAK but have almost 100 references in the New Testament. What changed? What does that mean to us today? Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. April 2025 Mark chapter 1 contains an outline of Y'shua's entire ministry as well as that given to His apostles after His resurrection. The outline boils down to: preach the Gospel, heal the sick, cast out demons. Demons are barely mentioned in the TANAK but have almost 100 references in the New Testament. What changed? What does that mean to us today? https://crimsonthread.com/media/2052/demons25.mp3 20:30 Tue, 29 Apr 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion During His final journey to Jerusalem, Y'shua told a series of parables. These parables are arranged as a chiasm. The first and last element of that chiasm concerns a noble who goes away to obtain a kingdom. His subjects try to stop him from becoming their ruler. He also leaves resources with his servants and expects an accounting upon his return. His servants are rewarded or punished according to what they did with the master's resources while he was away. Jon Behrens During His final journey to Jerusalem, Y'shua told a series of parables. During His final journey to Jerusalem, Y'shua told a series of parables. These parables are arranged as a chiasm. The first and last element of that chiasm concerns a noble who goes away to obtain a kingdom. His subjects try to stop him from becoming their ruler. He also leaves resources with his servants and expects an accounting upon his return. His servants are rewarded or punished according to what they did with the master's resources while he was away. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2053/lu25_eschatology.mp3 34:31 Thu, 01 May 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion The first four chapters of the letter deal with divisions in the church caused by intellectual pride. Since Paul had planted the church, they had heard the teaching of others and factions had formed. Each of the teachers mentioned were perfectly sound but perhaps each had said things differently. in their inexperience and pride, members of the church had seized on stylistic differences and elevated them to the level of doctrine. Jon Behrens Corinth was a seaport town - think San Francisco - Paul was given the gentile franchise. The consequence of that was that his audience did not have a solid Scriptural background even though they had the Holy Spirit and enthusiasm. The first four chapters of the letter deal with divisions in the church caused by intellectual pride. Since Paul had planted the church, they had heard the teaching of others and factions had formed. Each of the teachers mentioned were perfectly sound but perhaps each had said things differently. in their inexperience and pride, members of the church had seized on stylistic differences and elevated them to the level of doctrine. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1404/1corinthians18_1-2.mp3 33:37 Sun, 04 May 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Speech is important.. It can either build up or destroy. In the Torah, leprosy is twice associated with negative speech. This indicates that Biblical leprosy is a physical manifestation of a heart condition. Although Biblical leprosy no longer manifests, a person's speech still can expose his heart condition. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. May 2025 Speech is important.. It can either build up or destroy. In the Torah, leprosy is twice associated with negative speech. This indicates that Biblical leprosy is a physical manifestation of a heart condition. Although Biblical leprosy no longer manifests, a person's speech still can expose his heart condition. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2054/lashonharah25.mp3 20:15 Tue, 06 May 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion This set of parables emphasizes the cost of entering the Kingdom of God. Several people desire to follow Him but have things to do before they can begin. Others are encumbered by the things of the world. The Good Samaritan, the Rich Young Ruler, Zacchaeus. Jon Behrens During His final journey to Jerusalem, Y'shua told a series of parables. This set of parables emphasizes the cost of entering the Kingdom of God. Several people desire to follow Him but have things to do before they can begin. Others are encumbered by the things of the world. The Good Samaritan, the Rich Young Ruler, Zacchaeus. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2055/lu25_eternallife.mp3 39:39 Thu, 08 May 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion As Paul writes to correct the hubris of the Corinthian church, he compares himself and the other Apostles to builders working on the living Tabernacle. In this, he directs merit away from himself and toward God where it rightly belongs. Jon Behrens Corinth was a seaport town - think San Francisco - Paul was given the gentile franchise. The consequence of that was that his audience did not have a solid Scriptural background even though they had the Holy Spirit and enthusiasm. As Paul writes to correct the hubris of the Corinthian church, he compares himself and the other Apostles to builders working on the living Tabernacle. In this, he directs merit away from himself and toward God where it rightly belongs. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1405/1corinthians18_2-4.mp3 36:50 Sun, 11 May 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion In Leviticus, God tells Israel to be holy because He is Holy. In the subsequent verses, He gives them laws on the basis of His own authority. The explicit purpose of these laws it to differentiate Israel from the nations that they are to destroy. The reason for those nations' destruction is that they practiced all of the abominations that God forbids. So too, our society has degraded to the point that we have made all of the forbidden abominations commonplace. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. May 2025 In Leviticus, God tells Israel to be holy because He is Holy. In the subsequent verses, He gives them laws on the basis of His own authority. The explicit purpose of these laws it to differentiate Israel from the nations that they are to destroy. The reason for those nations' destruction is that they practiced all of the abominations that God forbids. So too, our society has degraded to the point that we have made all of the forbidden abominations commonplace. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2056/kedoshim25.mp3 19:56 Tue, 13 May 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Y'shua's disciples ask Him to teach them how to pray. That means that prayer is a skill that can be taught. The Lord's Prayer, the Friend at Midnight, the Unjust Judge and the Pharisee and the Tax Collector. Jon Behrens During His final journey to Jerusalem, Y'shua told a series of parables. Y'shua's disciples ask Him to teach them how to pray. That means that prayer is a skill that can be taught. The Lord's Prayer, the Friend at Midnight, the Unjust Judge and the Pharisee and the Tax Collector. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2057/lu25_prayer.mp3 36:36 Thu, 15 May 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion It appears that some in the Corinthian church mistook the liberty that we have in Messiah for license. In this they had descended into debauchery. Paul writes against this in the strongest of terms, telling the church to expel those who engaged in flagrant sin. Jon Behrens Corinth was a seaport town - think San Francisco - Paul was given the gentile franchise. The consequence of that was that his audience did not have a solid Scriptural background even though they had the Holy Spirit and enthusiasm. It appears that some in the Corinthian church mistook the liberty that we have in Messiah for license. In this they had descended into debauchery. Paul writes against this in the strongest of terms, telling the church to expel those who engaged in flagrant sin. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1407/1corinthians18_5-6.mp3 30:31 Sun, 18 May 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Leviticus, the central book of the Torah, is where God tells Israel how He wishes to be approached and worshipped. Many believe that those instructions were only for Israel and have been superseded by the Resurrection of Christ. That is not true. Sacrifice is an act of love and is always acceptable in that spirit. God promises that when He regathers Israel and the Temple is rebuilt, He will once again accept sacrifice. That will be both from Israel and from the gentiles. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. May 2025 Leviticus, the central book of the Torah, is where God tells Israel how He wishes to be approached and worshipped. Many believe that those instructions were only for Israel and have been superseded by the Resurrection of Christ. That is not true. Sacrifice is an act of love and is always acceptable in that spirit. God promises that when He regathers Israel and the Temple is rebuilt, He will once again accept sacrifice. That will be both from Israel and from the gentiles. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2058/sacrifice25.mp3 21:40 Tue, 20 May 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion After having being accused of casting out demons by the power of Beelzebul, Y'shua's speech becomes more cryptic - except when dealing with the self righteousness of the Pharisees and the Lawyers. Their constant demands for supernatural signs beyond the ones He has shown openly bespeaks a heart that doesn't want to learn the truth. Jon Behrens During His final journey to Jerusalem, Y'shua told a series of parables. After having being accused of casting out demons by the power of Beelzebul, Y'shua's speech becomes more cryptic - except when dealing with the self righteousness of the Pharisees and the Lawyers. Their constant demands for supernatural signs beyond the ones He has shown openly bespeaks a heart that doesn't want to learn the truth. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2059/lu25_kingdomsigns.mp3 37:27 Thu, 22 May 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion In the 7th chapter, Paul is responding to a question that we can only infer from his answer. In this he sounds lukewarm on marriage. Later in the letter we learn that he expects Y'shua to return very shortly. Hence, the inference is that he believed that spiritual pursuits were more important than romantic ones given the times. Jon Behrens Corinth was a seaport town - think San Francisco - Paul was given the gentile franchise. The consequence of that was that his audience did not have a solid Scriptural background even though they had the Holy Spirit and enthusiasm. In the 7th chapter, Paul is responding to a question that we can only infer from his answer. In this he sounds lukewarm on marriage. Later in the letter we learn that he expects Y'shua to return very shortly. Hence, the inference is that he believed that spiritual pursuits were more important than romantic ones given the times. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1412/1corinthians18_7.mp3 20:01 Sun, 25 May 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion At the end of Leviticus, Moses talks about the seventh and the fiftieth years of release. There debts are forgiven, Israelite slaves are freed, the land is allowed to rest and, on the Jubilee, people return to the land that Joshua allotted to their clans. This is not a test of faith, because God promises a bumper crop on the sixth year so there is no fear of hunger. Rather it is a test of people's attitude toward wealth. Will they be satisfied with the blessings that God has promised and provided or will they be greedy and work their land and keep their slaves in the seventh year? Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. May 2025 At the end of Leviticus, Moses talks about the seventh and the fiftieth years of release. There debts are forgiven, Israelite slaves are freed, the land is allowed to rest and, on the Jubilee, people return to the land that Joshua allotted to their clans. This is not a test of faith, because God promises a bumper crop on the sixth year so there is no fear of hunger. Rather it is a test of people's attitude toward wealth. Will they be satisfied with the blessings that God has promised and provided or will they be greedy and work their land and keep their slaves in the seventh year? https://crimsonthread.com/media/2060/behar25.mp3 20:36 Tue, 27 May 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Y'shua was frequently in conflict with the Pharisees who were lovers of money and prestige. The parable of the rich fool who decided to build bigger barns. The parable of the dishonest manager. Jon Behrens During His final journey to Jerusalem, Y'shua told a series of parables. Y'shua was frequently in conflict with the Pharisees who were lovers of money and prestige. The parable of the rich fool who decided to build bigger barns. The parable of the dishonest manager. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2061/lu25_money.mp3 35:02 Thu, 29 May 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Paul continues his advice to live in the expectation that Messiah's return is imminent. In this he speaks of both employment circumstances and marital arrangements. As mentioned in last time, he advises to avoid concentrating on romance unless such might lead to sin. Jon Behrens Corinth was a seaport town - think San Francisco - Paul was given the gentile franchise. The consequence of that was that his audience did not have a solid Scriptural background even though they had the Holy Spirit and enthusiasm. Paul continues his advice to live in the expectation that Messiah's return is imminent. In this he speaks of both employment circumstances and marital arrangements. As mentioned in last time, he advises to avoid concentrating on romance unless such might lead to sin. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1414/1corinthians18_7-17.mp3 22:36 Sun, 01 Jun 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion The parable of the sower marks the point in His ministry where Y'shua gives up on trying to convert Israel's religious establishment because they do not want to believe that He is the Messiah. From that point his public messages are in cryptic parables. In the parable of the sower, there are four regions where seed falls. They represent Satanic interference with the Word, societal hostility, individual distraction and the faithful heart respectively. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. May 2025 The parable of the sower marks the point in His ministry where Y'shua gives up on trying to convert Israel's religious establishment because they do not want to believe that He is the Messiah. From that point his public messages are in cryptic parables. In the parable of the sower, there are four regions where seed falls. They represent Satanic interference with the Word, societal hostility, individual distraction and the faithful heart respectively. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2062/sower25.mp3 19:07 Tue, 03 Jun 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion In the parable of Lazarus and the rich man, the rich man's deficiency is not his wealth per se. Rather, he is not handling that wealth as indicated by Moses and the Prophets. Lazarus' condition is evidence that the rich man did not love his neighbor. In the Luke 12 parable of the servants awaiting their master's return, the message is that His return will be at an unexpected time and He wants His servants to be found faithful to their charges. Jon Behrens During His final journey to Jerusalem, Y'shua told a series of parables. In the parable of Lazarus and the rich man, the rich man's deficiency is not his wealth per se. Rather, he is not handling that wealth as indicated by Moses and the Prophets. Lazarus' condition is evidence that the rich man did not love his neighbor. In the Luke 12 parable of the servants awaiting their master's return, the message is that His return will be at an unexpected time and He wants His servants to be found faithful to their charges. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2064/lu25_thekingdomnow.mp3 31:41 Thu, 05 Jun 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion The question of meat sacrificed to idols was important in a predominantly pagan world. Paul's answer to the problem was a variation of "don't ask, don't tell." If, by whatever means, one discovers that meat has been part of a sacrifice, it is forbidden. Otherwise it is permitted and one need not conduct an investigation. Jon Behrens Corinth was a seaport town - think San Francisco - Paul was given the gentile franchise. The consequence of that was that his audience did not have a solid Scriptural background even though they had the Holy Spirit and enthusiasm. The question of meat sacrificed to idols was important in a predominantly pagan world. Paul's answer to the problem was a variation of "don't ask, don't tell." If, by whatever means, one discovers that meat has been part of a sacrifice, it is forbidden. Otherwise it is permitted and one need not conduct an investigation. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1415/1corinthians18_8.mp3 26:52 Sun, 08 Jun 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion In Mark 3 and 4 Y'shua switches from speaking plainly to speaking in parables. This is after He was accused of having demonic powers. This set of kingdom parables is slightly different from those in Mat 13. After saying that a strong man's goods cannot be stolen unless he is first bound, He begins with the parable of the sower and then gives four more parables. The question is, what is He concealing from His listeners that He then speaks plainly to His disciples? Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. June 2025 In Mark 3 and 4 Y'shua switches from speaking plainly to speaking in parables. This is after He was accused of having demonic powers. This set of kingdom parables is slightly different from those in Mat 13. After saying that a strong man's goods cannot be stolen unless he is first bound, He begins with the parable of the sower and then gives four more parables. The question is, what is He concealing from His listeners that He then speaks plainly to His disciples? https://crimsonthread.com/media/2066/markkingdomparables.mp3 18:56 Tue, 10 Jun 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion God is not willing that anyone should be lost. The parable of the fig tree warns Israel to bear fruit. The parables of the lost sheep, the lost coin and the prodigal son indicate the joy in heaven when that which has been lost is restored. Jon Behrens During His final journey to Jerusalem, Y'shua told a series of parables. God is not willing that anyone should be lost. The parable of the fig tree warns Israel to bear fruit. The parables of the lost sheep, the lost coin and the prodigal son indicate the joy in heaven when that which has been lost is restored. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2067/lu25_lostthings.mp3 34:44 Thu, 12 Jun 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion After a defense of his apostleship, Paul turns to the generation that died in the wilderness. That generations failures should serve as an example and warning for us today. The temptations that caused them to fall are no different than those we face. Jon Behrens Corinth was a seaport town - think San Francisco - Paul was given the gentile franchise. The consequence of that was that his audience did not have a solid Scriptural background even though they had the Holy Spirit and enthusiasm. After a defense of his apostleship, Paul turns to the generation that died in the wilderness. That generations failures should serve as an example and warning for us today. The temptations that caused them to fall are no different than those we face. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1417/1corinthians18_9-10.mp3 31:08 Sun, 15 Jun 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion In Numbers 11 when the people complain that they are fed up with manna and want Egypt food, Moses has a melt down before God, complaining that he didn't want the job and would rather die than continue. God treats him gently as would a friend or parent and gets him some help. Similarly, Y'shua, who is the physical son of God, tells us to pray to our Father in Heaven. That is we are to have a family relationship with God. This idea of God as a friend or parent is unique to Judaism and Christianity. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. June 2025 In Numbers 11 when the people complain that they are fed up with manna and want Egypt food, Moses has a melt down before God, complaining that he didn't want the job and would rather die than continue. God treats him gently as would a friend or parent and gets him some help. Similarly, Y'shua, who is the physical son of God, tells us to pray to our Father in Heaven. That is we are to have a family relationship with God. This idea of God as a friend or parent is unique to Judaism and Christianity. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2068/godlovespeople.mp3 15:32 Tue, 17 Jun 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion In the parable of the great banquet, the invited guests all make transparently false and insulting excuses why they cannot attend. This leads the master to cast a wide net and bring others in. In the parable of the wedding feast, the Pharisees assume they will have places of honor in the kingdom. In the parable of the narrow door the Pharisees are assuming that because they are Abraham's descendants, they will be admitted. Jon Behrens During His final journey to Jerusalem, Y'shua told a series of parables. In the parable of the great banquet, the invited guests all make transparently false and insulting excuses why they cannot attend. This leads the master to cast a wide net and bring others in. In the parable of the wedding feast, the Pharisees assume they will have places of honor in the kingdom. In the parable of the narrow door the Pharisees are assuming that because they are Abraham's descendants, they will be admitted. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2069/lu25_natureofthekingdom.mp3 32:13 Thu, 19 Jun 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Among the difficulties in the Corinthian church, there seemed to have been confusion or contention about gender roles. In addressing this, Paul starts with the order of creation and proceeds to then current customs. The upshot is that Scripture forbids dress or behavior that would confuse the two genders. Jon Behrens Corinth was a seaport town - think San Francisco - Paul was given the gentile franchise. The consequence of that was that his audience did not have a solid Scriptural background even though they had the Holy Spirit and enthusiasm. Among the difficulties in the Corinthian church, there seemed to have been confusion or contention about gender roles. In addressing this, Paul starts with the order of creation and proceeds to then current customs. The upshot is that Scripture forbids dress or behavior that would confuse the two genders. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1418/1corinthians18_11.mp3 31:05 Sun, 22 Jun 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion The journey from slavery to freedom ended for the wilderness generation when the spies brought a bad report about the land. Upon hearing that report, they gave up and asked to return to Egypt (and slavery). This represents one step in God's millennia-long project to develop a good relationship with the people that He created. The project began in the Garden and will culminate in the New Jerusalem. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. June 2025 The journey from slavery to freedom ended for the wilderness generation when the spies brought a bad report about the land. Upon hearing that report, they gave up and asked to return to Egypt (and slavery). This represents one step in God's millennia-long project to develop a good relationship with the people that He created. The project began in the Garden and will culminate in the New Jerusalem. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2070/shalch25.mp3 21:53 Tue, 24 Jun 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Truth is so precious and rare that people go to great lengths to counterfeit it. In this introduction we discuss the difficult problem of separating truth from opinion. Jon Behrens The first third of Jeremiah explores the Biblical concept of truth. Truth is so precious and rare that people go to great lengths to counterfeit it. In this introduction we discuss the difficult problem of separating truth from opinion. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1137/jeremiah_1-2.mp3 32:28 Thu, 26 Jun 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion In response to a question on spiritual gifts, Paul admonishes the Corinthians that all of the gifts are necessary for the well being of the body. Apparently there was some status seeking on the basis of having one gift over another. Jon Behrens Corinth was a seaport town - think San Francisco - Paul was given the gentile franchise. The consequence of that was that his audience did not have a solid Scriptural background even though they had the Holy Spirit and enthusiasm. In response to a question on spiritual gifts, Paul admonishes the Corinthians that all of the gifts are necessary for the well being of the body. Apparently there was some status seeking on the basis of having one gift over another. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1419/1corintihans18_12.mp3 23:50 Sun, 29 Jun 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion The generation that left Egypt under Moses' leadership fell into bitter disappointment when they believed the bad report of the twelve spies. Korah took advantage of that depression to mount a challenge against Moses and ultimately against God Himself. His dream of assuming leadership was wrecked upon the rock of reality. God had decided and no amount of rabble rousing was going to change anything. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. June 2025 The generation that left Egypt under Moses' leadership fell into bitter disappointment when they believed the bad report of the twelve spies. Korah took advantage of that depression to mount a challenge against Moses and ultimately against God Himself. His dream of assuming leadership was wrecked upon the rock of reality. God had decided and no amount of rabble rousing was going to change anything. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2071/korah25.mp3 19:17 Tue, 01 Jul 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion To the extent that our society and its education system derive from classical Greece they ill equip us to understand Scripture. The Bible's way of presenting truth is very different. We read Scripture and think we understand it because the words are familiar. Jeremiah will correct our understanding if we will allow it. Judah did not. Jon Behrens The first third of Jeremiah explores the Biblical concept of truth. To the extent that our society and its education system derive from classical Greece they ill equip us to understand Scripture. The Bible's way of presenting truth is very different. We read Scripture and think we understand it because the words are familiar. Jeremiah will correct our understanding if we will allow it. Judah did not. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1138/jeremiah_2-3.mp3 30:15 Thu, 03 Jul 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion It appears that spiritual gifts, particularly the gift of tongues, were being used pridefully. Paul admonishes the church that spiritual gifts are given to benefit the body, not the person through whom they operate. When the church gathers, it is more important to be understood than it is to be envied by others. Jon Behrens Corinth was a seaport town - think San Francisco - Paul was given the gentile franchise. The consequence of that was that his audience did not have a solid Scriptural background even though they had the Holy Spirit and enthusiasm. It appears that spiritual gifts, particularly the gift of tongues, were being used pridefully. Paul admonishes the church that spiritual gifts are given to benefit the body, not the person through whom they operate. When the church gathers, it is more important to be understood than it is to be envied by others. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1429/1corinthians18_13-14.mp3 32:41 Sun, 06 Jul 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Although a people may be enslaved quickly by means of conquest, more often it is that they abandon their liberty. This abandonment generally begins with an abdication or avoidance of responsibility. They decide they want government to do something that they should be doing by themselves. Having shed responsibility, they then begin to tell themselves comforting lies to justify their situation. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. July 2025 Although a people may be enslaved quickly by means of conquest, more often it is that they abandon their liberty. This abandonment generally begins with an abdication or avoidance of responsibility. They decide they want government to do something that they should be doing by themselves. Having shed responsibility, they then begin to tell themselves comforting lies to justify their situation. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2072/liberty25.mp3 23:02 Tue, 08 Jul 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Following the truth, God's way, will over time lead to happiness and prosperity. Both Israel and the United States followed His way for an extended period of time and flourished. They then entered a time of error during which they consumed all of the good that previous generations had built up. Jon Behrens The first third of Jeremiah explores the Biblical concept of truth. Following the truth, God's way, will over time lead to happiness and prosperity. Both Israel and the United States followed His way for an extended period of time and flourished. They then entered a time of error during which they consumed all of the good that previous generations had built up. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1139/jeremiah_3-5.mp3 36:53 Thu, 10 Jul 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Some in the Corinthian church questioned if there was to be resurrection from the dead. Starting with the example of Y'shua, Paul explains that resurrection is central to Messianic belief. He also discusses the nature of the resurrection body. Jon Behrens Corinth was a seaport town - think San Francisco - Paul was given the gentile franchise. The consequence of that was that his audience did not have a solid Scriptural background even though they had the Holy Spirit and enthusiasm. Some in the Corinthian church questioned if there was to be resurrection from the dead. Starting with the example of Y'shua, Paul explains that resurrection is central to Messianic belief. He also discusses the nature of the resurrection body. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1432/1corinthians18_14-16.mp3 35:08 Sun, 13 Jul 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Reading the story of Balaam, one wonders why it is included in the Torah. Why didn't God simply forbid Balaam from going to Moab the second time he asked? It turns out that Balaam gets mentioned as a bad example all the way from Deuteronomy to Revelation. In this, he serves to emphasize that sex is very often the hook that is used to draw people away from God and in to idol worship. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. July 2025 Reading the story of Balaam, one wonders why it is included in the Torah. Why didn't God simply forbid Balaam from going to Moab the second time he asked? It turns out that Balaam gets mentioned as a bad example all the way from Deuteronomy to Revelation. In this, he serves to emphasize that sex is very often the hook that is used to draw people away from God and in to idol worship. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2073/balaam25.mp3 18:26 Tue, 15 Jul 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Jeremiah is speaking truth to Israel in Biblical fashion which is difficult to understand today because our thought process is essentially Greek. One of the Biblical techniques is the maschil; typically a poetic couplet. The couplet is open ended and is designed to evoke reflection and discussion. In this chapter, the prophet is saying that Israel has fallen into wishful thinking which has lead them away from God. Jon Behrens The first third of Jeremiah explores the Biblical concept of truth. Jeremiah is speaking truth to Israel in Biblical fashion which is difficult to understand today because our thought process is essentially Greek. One of the Biblical techniques is the maschil; typically a poetic couplet. The couplet is open ended and is designed to evoke reflection and discussion. In this chapter, the prophet is saying that Israel has fallen into wishful thinking which has lead them away from God. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1140/jeremiah_5-6.mp3 31:54 Fri, 18 Jul 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion It appears that reports of Paul's trials and suffering during his missionary journeys were being used to call his apostleship into question. He puts his trials into perspective. In this he also gives the Corinthians a gentle rebuke. Jon Behrens Corinth was a seaport town - think San Francisco - Paul was given the gentile franchise. The consequence of that was that his audience did not have a solid Scriptural background even though they had the Holy Spirit and enthusiasm. It appears that reports of Paul's trials and suffering during his missionary journeys were being used to call his apostleship into question. He puts his trials into perspective. In this he also gives the Corinthians a gentle rebuke. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1433/2corinthians18_1-2.mp3 28:28 Sun, 20 Jul 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Both Pinchas and Elijah acted zealously when they were confronted by flagrant sinfulness and idolatry in Israel. The zealot is akin to a hammer in God's hand, sometimes necessary but not to be used routinely. In Elijah's encounter with God in the mountain cave, it appears that God was checking whether Elijah could tone things down in the future. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. July 2025 Both Pinchas and Elijah acted zealously when they were confronted by flagrant sinfulness and idolatry in Israel. The zealot is akin to a hammer in God's hand, sometimes necessary but not to be used routinely. In Elijah's encounter with God in the mountain cave, it appears that God was checking whether Elijah could tone things down in the future. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1888/zealots.mp3 15:59 Tue, 22 Jul 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion In God's eyes the Temple has become like a hide-out where robbers flee for safety. They go there to hide until pursuit dies down, not to repent of their sins. For this reason, the building is no longer truly the Temple and it cannot give sanctuary to the nation. Jon Behrens The first third of Jeremiah explores the Biblical concept of truth. In God's eyes the Temple has become like a hide-out where robbers flee for safety. They go there to hide until pursuit dies down, not to repent of their sins. For this reason, the building is no longer truly the Temple and it cannot give sanctuary to the nation. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1141/jeremiah_7-8.mp3 30:10 Thu, 24 Jul 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Paul writes that the covenant written on hearts of flesh is more glorious than that written on tablets of stone. Why was the first covenant written on stone tablets? What, if anything, is different about the covenant to be written on the human heart? Jon Behrens Corinth was a seaport town - think San Francisco - Paul was given the gentile franchise. The consequence of that was that his audience did not have a solid Scriptural background even though they had the Holy Spirit and enthusiasm. Paul writes that the covenant written on hearts of flesh is more glorious than that written on tablets of stone. Why was the first covenant written on stone tablets? What, if anything, is different about the covenant to be written on the human heart? https://crimsonthread.com/media/1434/2corinthians18_3.mp3 31:40 Sun, 27 Jul 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion The end of the book of Numbers marks the end of Israel's time in the wilderness. What did God accomplish during those forty years? What was the Exodus' generation's role in the plan of God? What can that generation teach us today? Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. July 2025 The end of the book of Numbers marks the end of Israel's time in the wilderness. What did God accomplish during those forty years? What was the Exodus' generation's role in the plan of God? What can that generation teach us today? https://crimsonthread.com/media/2074/massei25.mp3 21:18 Tue, 29 Jul 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Society in Israel was coming apart. The nation knew the Word of God and had access to the remedy for their plight; yet they refused to apply that knowledge and heal their society. The elites believed that they were secure and exempt from the consequences of their wickedness, and so were surprised when death entered their city like a thief. This should sound eerily familiar to us. Jon Behrens The first third of Jeremiah explores the Biblical concept of truth. Society in Israel was coming apart. The nation knew the Word of God and had access to the remedy for their plight; yet they refused to apply that knowledge and heal their society. The elites believed that they were secure and exempt from the consequences of their wickedness, and so were surprised when death entered their city like a thief. This should sound eerily familiar to us. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1142/jeremiah_9-11.mp3 27:44 Thu, 31 Jul 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion The time and afflictions of this Earth are a prelude to the glory of the world to come. So, while this life is important to the realization of God's purposes, it is not permanent. Trials and afflictions should be viewed in that context. Jon Behrens Corinth was a seaport town - think San Francisco - Paul was given the gentile franchise. The consequence of that was that his audience did not have a solid Scriptural background even though they had the Holy Spirit and enthusiasm. The time and afflictions of this Earth are a prelude to the glory of the world to come. So, while this life is important to the realization of God's purposes, it is not permanent. Trials and afflictions should be viewed in that context. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1436/2corinthians18_4.mp3 31:08 Sun, 03 Aug 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion On Tisha B'Av we remember the calamities that have befallen the Hebrew people over the past three millennia. Most prominent of these was the destruction of the first Temple by the Babylonians and the second by the Romans. In both cases the reason was the same. Judah was treating the Temple as a sanctuary to shelter them from their evil deeds. They had no intention of repenting, they just wanted God's protection. Y'shua uses the same words - a den of robbers - when He drives the merchants out of the Temple. Israel did not repent then either and God had that Temple destroyed as well. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. August 2025 On Tisha B'Av we remember the calamities that have befallen the Hebrew people over the past three millennia. Most prominent of these was the destruction of the first Temple by the Babylonians and the second by the Romans. In both cases the reason was the same. Judah was treating the Temple as a sanctuary to shelter them from their evil deeds. They had no intention of repenting, they just wanted God's protection. Y'shua uses the same words - a den of robbers - when He drives the merchants out of the Temple. Israel did not repent then either and God had that Temple destroyed as well. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2075/tishabav25.mp3 22:22 Tue, 05 Aug 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Jeremiah asks the classic question, "Why do the wicked prosper?" Jon Behrens The first third of Jeremiah explores the Biblical concept of truth. Jeremiah asks the classic question, "Why do the wicked prosper?" https://crimsonthread.com/media/1143/jeremiah_12-13.mp3 26:16 Thu, 07 Aug 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Continuing to defend his apostleship, Paul writes of the ministry of reconciliation that was entrusted to him by God. In this his goal is to reconcile the world, Jew and gentile, to God and His kingdom. Jon Behrens Corinth was a seaport town - think San Francisco - Paul was given the gentile franchise. The consequence of that was that his audience did not have a solid Scriptural background even though they had the Holy Spirit and enthusiasm. Continuing to defend his apostleship, Paul writes of the ministry of reconciliation that was entrusted to him by God. In this his goal is to reconcile the world, Jew and gentile, to God and His kingdom. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1438/2corinthians18_5-6.mp3 29:08 Sun, 10 Aug 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion In Deuteronomy 6, the Shema is followed by v'ahavta saying that God is one and we should love Him. This is a radical departure from the prevailing polytheism in the rest of the world. Other 'gods' are transactional. If you need rain make a sacrifice to the rain god; otherwise you don't care about it and it does not care about you. Our God, on the other hand, desires to have an ongoing relationship. That relationship is based on mutual love and affection. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. August 2025 In Deuteronomy 6, the Shema is followed by v'ahavta saying that God is one and we should love Him. This is a radical departure from the prevailing polytheism in the rest of the world. Other 'gods' are transactional. If you need rain make a sacrifice to the rain god; otherwise you don't care about it and it does not care about you. Our God, on the other hand, desires to have an ongoing relationship. That relationship is based on mutual love and affection. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2076/veahavta.mp3 16:57 Tue, 12 Aug 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion If God expects us to understand what is true and to follow that truth, it must be possible for us to figure that out using the minds He has given to us. This short study has explored Jeremiah's answer to that problem. Jon Behrens The first third of Jeremiah explores the Biblical concept of truth. If God expects us to understand what is true and to follow that truth, it must be possible for us to figure that out using the minds He has given to us. This short study has explored Jeremiah's answer to that problem. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1144/jeremiah_14-15.mp3 29:37 Thu, 14 Aug 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion During the Council of Jerusalem, the other apostles told Paul that he should remember the poor in Israel - a thing that he wanted to do. In this section of the letter, Paul urges the Corinthian church to dig deep and follow the example of the Macedonian church. Jon Behrens Corinth was a seaport town - think San Francisco - Paul was given the gentile franchise. The consequence of that was that his audience did not have a solid Scriptural background even though they had the Holy Spirit and enthusiasm. During the Council of Jerusalem, the other apostles told Paul that he should remember the poor in Israel - a thing that he wanted to do. In this section of the letter, Paul urges the Corinthian church to dig deep and follow the example of the Macedonian church. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1439/2corinthians18_7-9.mp3 30:33 Sun, 17 Aug 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion In Mark, Y'shua is preparing His disciples to operate in a new spiritual regime. After His resurrection, they will have the Holy Spirit and His power available to them. Boats are a significant part of this preparation. In Mark 6 and 8, the disciples do not understand what's going on as they crossed the sea because they had hard hearts. What was it that they were unable to understand? How does that correlate with what Moses was doing in Deuteronomy? Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. August 2025 In Mark, Y'shua is preparing His disciples to operate in a new spiritual regime. After His resurrection, they will have the Holy Spirit and His power available to them. Boats are a significant part of this preparation. In Mark 6 and 8, the disciples do not understand what's going on as they crossed the sea because they had hard hearts. What was it that they were unable to understand? How does that correlate with what Moses was doing in Deuteronomy? https://crimsonthread.com/media/2077/boats25.mp3 18:28 Tue, 19 Aug 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion The prophet speaks of the corrupt power structure in the Northern Kingdom of Israel. There the wicked people in the government have no real fear of being stopped and so spend their time devising schemes to use their positions for personal enrichment. Jon Behrens Micah prophesied during the destruction of the Northern Kingdom of Israel. Like Isaiah, his messages ranged from the immediate to the end of days. The prophet speaks of the corrupt power structure in the Northern Kingdom of Israel. There the wicked people in the government have no real fear of being stopped and so spend their time devising schemes to use their positions for personal enrichment. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1643/micah20_1-2.mp3 29:48 Thu, 21 Aug 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion In defending his ministry, Paul's wish is that the Corinthian church's faith would become secure so that they might become a base from which he could project the Gospel to other lands. In other parts of the letter, he uses the Macedonian church in this way. Jon Behrens Corinth was a seaport town - think San Francisco - Paul was given the gentile franchise. The consequence of that was that his audience did not have a solid Scriptural background even though they had the Holy Spirit and enthusiasm. In defending his ministry, Paul's wish is that the Corinthian church's faith would become secure so that they might become a base from which he could project the Gospel to other lands. In other parts of the letter, he uses the Macedonian church in this way. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1441/2corinthians18_10-11.mp3 25:02 Sun, 24 Aug 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Between Deuteronomy 11 and 30 Moses gives a great many detailed laws. They might seem disjointed except that he also gives their context. Each commandment or law is an aspect of what God knows is necessary for human society to thrive. When a nation neglects those laws, it gradually falls into corruption, decay and death. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. August 2025 Between Deuteronomy 11 and 30 Moses gives a great many detailed laws. They might seem disjointed except that he also gives their context. Each commandment or law is an aspect of what God knows is necessary for human society to thrive. When a nation neglects those laws, it gradually falls into corruption, decay and death. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2078/reeh25.mp3 19:17 Tue, 26 Aug 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion The elites of Israel - rulers, prophets, seers, etc. - had become corrupt. They used their offices to enrich themselves at the expense of the people they were supposed to lead and minister to. Because the corruption at the top had trickled down to the people, the whole nation was going to be plowed under and sent into exile. Jon Behrens Micah prophesied during the destruction of the Northern Kingdom of Israel. Like Isaiah, his messages ranged from the immediate to the end of days. The elites of Israel - rulers, prophets, seers, etc. - had become corrupt. They used their offices to enrich themselves at the expense of the people they were supposed to lead and minister to. Because the corruption at the top had trickled down to the people, the whole nation was going to be plowed under and sent into exile. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1645/micah20_3.mp3 28:28 Thu, 28 Aug 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion In concluding the letter, Paul speaks of a messenger of Satan, a thorn in the flesh. Preachers have used this passage to teach that God is sometimes not willing to heal His servants. That is not at all what the passage implies. Jon Behrens Corinth was a seaport town - think San Francisco - Paul was given the gentile franchise. The consequence of that was that his audience did not have a solid Scriptural background even though they had the Holy Spirit and enthusiasm. In concluding the letter, Paul speaks of a messenger of Satan, a thorn in the flesh. Preachers have used this passage to teach that God is sometimes not willing to heal His servants. That is not at all what the passage implies. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1443/2corinthians18_12-13.mp3 26:50 Sun, 31 Aug 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion The Biblical Feasts lay out God's plan for the creation. They are also integral to the earthly life and ministry of Messiah. When viewed in the context of the Transfiguration in Mark, we can see His plan for the work of the church and for His second coming. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. August 2025 The Biblical Feasts lay out God's plan for the creation. They are also integral to the earthly life and ministry of Messiah. When viewed in the context of the Transfiguration in Mark, we can see His plan for the work of the church and for His second coming. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2079/elul25.mp3 21:20 Tue, 02 Sep 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion In the latter days, the nations will flock to the Mountain of the Lord to learn Torah. During that time peace and plenty will reign. Also during that time the Lord will regather and heal the dispersed of Israel and reform them into a mighty nation. Jon Behrens Micah prophesied during the destruction of the Northern Kingdom of Israel. Like Isaiah, his messages ranged from the immediate to the end of days. In the latter days, the nations will flock to the Mountain of the Lord to learn Torah. During that time peace and plenty will reign. Also during that time the Lord will regather and heal the dispersed of Israel and reform them into a mighty nation. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1647/micah21_4.mp3 32:12 Thu, 04 Sep 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion In this introduction, God challenges Satan with Job's righteousness. Satan's response, that Job is fundamentally physical and not spiritual, sets up the rest of the book. Satan takes everything away from Job in the belief that he will eventually lose his faith and curse God. Jon Behrens Job gives us a perspective that there is also a spiritual dimension to events on earth that we do not see. That realization should serve to make us very charitable toward our brothers when they are being afflicted. In this introduction, God challenges Satan with Job's righteousness. Satan's response, that Job is fundamentally physical and not spiritual, sets up the rest of the book. Satan takes everything away from Job in the belief that he will eventually lose his faith and curse God. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1315/job16_1-3.mp3 31:03 Sun, 07 Sep 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion The month of Elul leading up to the fall feasts is a time for spiritual preparation as we get ready to meet the King. Forgiveness is an integral part of that preparation. Y'shua says that your ability to forgive sets the tone for how you will be judged. Forgiveness is hard. How does one get started? Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. September 2025 The month of Elul leading up to the fall feasts is a time for spiritual preparation as we get ready to meet the King. Forgiveness is an integral part of that preparation. Y'shua says that your ability to forgive sets the tone for how you will be judged. Forgiveness is hard. How does one get started? https://crimsonthread.com/media/2080/forgivness25.mp3 19:33 Tue, 09 Sep 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion The prophecy that the Messiah would be born in Bethlehem and that He would deliver His people from that nations that had oppressed them. Also in this session, God tells His people what He requires of them. Jon Behrens Micah prophesied during the destruction of the Northern Kingdom of Israel. Like Isaiah, his messages ranged from the immediate to the end of days. The prophecy that the Messiah would be born in Bethlehem and that He would deliver His people from that nations that had oppressed them. Also in this session, God tells His people what He requires of them. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1649/micah21_5-6.mp3 35:21 Thu, 11 Sep 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Eliphaz, the first of Job's friends to speak, rebukes Job for claiming that he is righteous and does not deserve the woe that has befallen him. Job answers that his friend's comfort is no comfort at all and the he is indeed righteous. Jon Behrens Job gives us a perspective that there is also a spiritual dimension to events on earth that we do not see. That realization should serve to make us very charitable toward our brothers when they are being afflicted. Eliphaz, the first of Job's friends to speak, rebukes Job for claiming that he is righteous and does not deserve the woe that has befallen him. Job answers that his friend's comfort is no comfort at all and the he is indeed righteous. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1318/job16_4-7.mp3 36:10 Sun, 14 Sep 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Parsha KiTavo begins with a recitation of Israel's history preparatory to giving the first fruits and ends with a series of terrible curses. As it turns out, joyful fulfilment of the giving of firstfruits and the triennial tithe to support the Levite, the orphan, the widow and the stranger is the key to activating the blessings promised in Dt 28 and preventing the activation of the curses. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. September 2025 Parsha KiTavo begins with a recitation of Israel's history preparatory to giving the first fruits and ends with a series of terrible curses. As it turns out, joyful fulfilment of the giving of firstfruits and the triennial tithe to support the Levite, the orphan, the widow and the stranger is the key to activating the blessings promised in Dt 28 and preventing the activation of the curses. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2081/kitavo25.mp3 19:08 Tue, 16 Sep 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion The prophet's message fits the times we are in. 'Their hands are on evil... the prince and the judge look for a bribe.' One cannot trust even family and neighbors. This is the judgment of God on His own people. Yet there will be a remnant whom He will lift up when His indignation has passed. That remnant will be those who trust in Him through these times. Jon Behrens Micah prophesied during the destruction of the Northern Kingdom of Israel. Like Isaiah, his messages ranged from the immediate to the end of days. The prophet's message fits the times we are in. 'Their hands are on evil... the prince and the judge look for a bribe.' One cannot trust even family and neighbors. This is the judgment of God on His own people. Yet there will be a remnant whom He will lift up when His indignation has passed. That remnant will be those who trust in Him through these times. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1651/micah21_6-7.mp3 36:20 Thu, 18 Sep 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Bildad's first accusation: God does not do any injustice, therefore Job's problems are of his own making. Job's reply is that he is innocent, but there is no court to which he can go for justice when God is the accuser. Jon Behrens Job gives us a perspective that there is also a spiritual dimension to events on earth that we do not see. That realization should serve to make us very charitable toward our brothers when they are being afflicted. Bildad's first accusation: God does not do any injustice, therefore Job's problems are of his own making. Job's reply is that he is innocent, but there is no court to which he can go for justice when God is the accuser. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1320/job16_8-10.mp3 29:38 Sun, 21 Sep 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Deuteronomy 30 forms the end of a chiasm that began in Genesis 2. In the Garden God presented humanity with a choice between life and death. When we ate of the tree of knowledge of good and evil, we chose death for ourselves and our children. In Dt 30, we get a second chance at that choice. In this case Moses explicitly lays out the choice between blessing and curses and between life and death. He then gives us God's preferred solution - choose life - for yourself and for your children. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. September 2025 Deuteronomy 30 forms the end of a chiasm that began in Genesis 2. In the Garden God presented humanity with a choice between life and death. When we ate of the tree of knowledge of good and evil, we chose death for ourselves and our children. In Dt 30, we get a second chance at that choice. In this case Moses explicitly lays out the choice between blessing and curses and between life and death. He then gives us God's preferred solution - choose life - for yourself and for your children. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2082/chooselife25.mp3 17:12 Tue, 23 Sep 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion The end of the Wilderness wandering and preparation for the conquest of the land. Discussion of geography. Why the location of Israel is important and why the invasion started from the east through Jericho instead of from the south as had previously been attempted under Moses. Jon Behrens Joshua is important both for historical and for prophetic reasons. Historically, it gives contest and background for the rest of Scripture. Prophetically, it prefigures the return of Messiah and the displacement of God's enemies. The end of the Wilderness wandering and preparation for the conquest of the land. Discussion of geography. Why the location of Israel is important and why the invasion started from the east through Jericho instead of from the south as had previously been attempted under Moses. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2083/josh25_1.mp3 27:33 Thu, 25 Sep 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Zophar, the third of Job's friends to speak, opines that Job is getting far less punishment than he deserves. In this Zophar is presuming to understand both the mind of God and the heart of Job. The first is logically impossible and the second is presumptuous. Jon Behrens Job gives us a perspective that there is also a spiritual dimension to events on earth that we do not see. That realization should serve to make us very charitable toward our brothers when they are being afflicted. Zophar, the third of Job's friends to speak, opines that Job is getting far less punishment than he deserves. In this Zophar is presuming to understand both the mind of God and the heart of Job. The first is logically impossible and the second is presumptuous. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1321/job16_11-14.mp3 34:20 Sun, 28 Sep 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion The ten days between Yom Teruah and Yom Kipur are known as the days of awe. It is a time to take stock of what one has accomplished in the past year and plan for the future. In doing this, one can draw inspiration from Moses. His accomplishments during the last month of his life were truly great. One can also draw inspiration from the martyrdom of Charlie Kirk. That event has catalyzed believers all over America and may turn out to be one Satan's great mistakes. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. September 2025 The ten days between Yom Teruah and Yom Kipur are known as the days of awe. It is a time to take stock of what one has accomplished in the past year and plan for the future. In doing this, one can draw inspiration from Moses. His accomplishments during the last month of his life were truly great. One can also draw inspiration from the martyrdom of Charlie Kirk. That event has catalyzed believers all over America and may turn out to be one Satan's great mistakes. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2084/daysofawe25.mp3 23:53 Tue, 30 Sep 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion The spies Joshua sent to Jericho had a very different focus than those Moses had sent 38 years before. Joshua's spies were to assess the morale and fighting spirit of the fortress Jericho that sat astride the route from the Jordan valley up to the saddle of Benjamin. Similarly, God stopped the flow of the Jordan so that Israel could cross dry shod. This served to assure the Israelites that God was indeed on their side and would help them to prevail. Jon Behrens Joshua is important both for historical and for prophetic reasons. Historically, it gives contest and background for the rest of Scripture. Prophetically, it prefigures the return of Messiah and the displacement of God's enemies. The spies Joshua sent to Jericho had a very different focus than those Moses had sent 38 years before. Joshua's spies were to assess the morale and fighting spirit of the fortress Jericho that sat astride the route from the Jordan valley up to the saddle of Benjamin. Similarly, God stopped the flow of the Jordan so that Israel could cross dry shod. This served to assure the Israelites that God was indeed on their side and would help them to prevail. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2085/josh25_2-3.mp3 31:10 Thu, 02 Oct 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Eliphaz rebukes Job for insisting on his own wisdom. He says that Job's stiff neck is what is hindering God from showing him mercy. Jon Behrens Job gives us a perspective that there is also a spiritual dimension to events on earth that we do not see. That realization should serve to make us very charitable toward our brothers when they are being afflicted. Eliphaz rebukes Job for insisting on his own wisdom. He says that Job's stiff neck is what is hindering God from showing him mercy. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1324/job16_15-17.mp3 30:22 Sun, 05 Oct 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion In Dt 32 Moses lays out what will happen to Israel should they abandon God and entertain foreign gods. The descent in that passage begins with their extreme prosperity under God's blessing. That prosperity tempts them to look for a 'better deal' with the gods of the surrounding nations. In Mk 10, the rich young man asks what he lacks to inherit eternal life. Y'shua's answer, "Sell all you have and follow Me." is more than the young man can manage. The Bible does not teach poverty, so what's going on here? Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. October 2025 In Dt 32 Moses lays out what will happen to Israel should they abandon God and entertain foreign gods. The descent in that passage begins with their extreme prosperity under God's blessing. That prosperity tempts them to look for a 'better deal' with the gods of the surrounding nations. In Mk 10, the rich young man asks what he lacks to inherit eternal life. Y'shua's answer, "Sell all you have and follow Me." is more than the young man can manage. The Bible does not teach poverty, so what's going on here? https://crimsonthread.com/media/2086/haazenu25.mp3 17:44 Tue, 07 Oct 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion The crossing of the Jordan on dry ground and the meeting of the Commander of the Army of the LORD closes a chiasm that began with Moses at the burning bush and the crossing of the Red Sea. This was a definite morale booster for Israel and a source of great dismay to he inhabitants of Jericho who would have been able to watch the whole things from the city walls. Jon Behrens Joshua is important both for historical and for prophetic reasons. Historically, it gives contest and background for the rest of Scripture. Prophetically, it prefigures the return of Messiah and the displacement of God's enemies. The crossing of the Jordan on dry ground and the meeting of the Commander of the Army of the LORD closes a chiasm that began with Moses at the burning bush and the crossing of the Red Sea. This was a definite morale booster for Israel and a source of great dismay to he inhabitants of Jericho who would have been able to watch the whole things from the city walls. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2087/josh25_4-5.mp3 26:50 Thu, 09 Oct 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion In his second speech, Bildad describes what the wise believe is in store for the wicked. Since those very things are happening to Job, his accusation is that, despite what everyone had believed about him, Job is a wicked man. Jon Behrens Job gives us a perspective that there is also a spiritual dimension to events on earth that we do not see. That realization should serve to make us very charitable toward our brothers when they are being afflicted. In his second speech, Bildad describes what the wise believe is in store for the wicked. Since those very things are happening to Job, his accusation is that, despite what everyone had believed about him, Job is a wicked man. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1326/job16_18-19.mp3 22:11 Sun, 12 Oct 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Succot means different things depending on who you believe yourself to be. For Jews, it is a remembrance of the time after the Exodus when God took them into the wilderness and they dwelt in tents. For most Christians it has very little significance. For Messianics, it has both historical meaning and prophetic significance. Historically, it is almost certainly when Christ was born. Prophetically, it may presage the Messianic Reign. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. October 2025 Succot means different things depending on who you believe yourself to be. For Jews, it is a remembrance of the time after the Exodus when God took them into the wilderness and they dwelt in tents. For most Christians it has very little significance. For Messianics, it has both historical meaning and prophetic significance. Historically, it is almost certainly when Christ was born. Prophetically, it may presage the Messianic Reign. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2088/succot25.mp3 16:19 Tue, 14 Oct 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Jericho sat at the entrance to the route from the Jordan valley to the Saddle of Benjamin. As such it needed to be destroyed so that Joshua could leave the Israelite women and children behind in safety while the warriors moved west and fought the Canaanites. The events of the reduction of Jericho prefigure the seven trumpets of Revelation. Jon Behrens Joshua is important both for historical and for prophetic reasons. Historically, it gives contest and background for the rest of Scripture. Prophetically, it prefigures the return of Messiah and the displacement of God's enemies. Jericho sat at the entrance to the route from the Jordan valley to the Saddle of Benjamin. As such it needed to be destroyed so that Joshua could leave the Israelite women and children behind in safety while the warriors moved west and fought the Canaanites. The events of the reduction of Jericho prefigure the seven trumpets of Revelation. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2089/josh25_6.mp3 32:53 Thu, 16 Oct 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Zophar dogmatically asserts that God punishes the wicked and that Job's condition proves that he is unrighteous. Job counters with examples of the wicked prospering. Jon Behrens Job gives us a perspective that there is also a spiritual dimension to events on earth that we do not see. That realization should serve to make us very charitable toward our brothers when they are being afflicted. Zophar dogmatically asserts that God punishes the wicked and that Job's condition proves that he is unrighteous. Job counters with examples of the wicked prospering. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1327/job16_20-21.mp3 30:23 Sun, 19 Oct 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion The first five and a half chapters of Genesis contain the entire Bible in a nutshell. There we learn the purpose of creation, the nature of God, the nature of humanity, the techniques of Satan and the entirety of the Gospel. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. October 2025 The first five and a half chapters of Genesis contain the entire Bible in a nutshell. There we learn the purpose of creation, the nature of God, the nature of humanity, the techniques of Satan and the entirety of the Gospel. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2090/bereshit25.mp3 22:49 Tue, 21 Oct 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion After the reduction of Jericho, Israel turned to capturing the Saddle of Benjamin, with Ai being the first target. Reconnaissance reported that Ai was a soft target and only a small force would be needed. Because a man in Israel had disobeyed God and taken spoil from Jericho, that force was routed. Once the sinner had been dealt with, Joshua took his entire force up and captured both Ai and BethEl. From there he turned north and went to Shechem and renewed to Covenant as commanded by Moses. Jon Behrens Joshua is important both for historical and for prophetic reasons. Historically, it gives contest and background for the rest of Scripture. Prophetically, it prefigures the return of Messiah and the displacement of God's enemies. After the reduction of Jericho, Israel turned to capturing the Saddle of Benjamin, with Ai being the first target. Reconnaissance reported that Ai was a soft target and only a small force would be needed. Because a man in Israel had disobeyed God and taken spoil from Jericho, that force was routed. Once the sinner had been dealt with, Joshua took his entire force up and captured both Ai and BethEl. From there he turned north and went to Shechem and renewed to Covenant as commanded by Moses. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2091/josh25_7-8.mp3 30:29 Thu, 23 Oct 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Eliphaz accuses Job of acting like he believes he is doing God a favor by following His laws. He also believes that the calamity that his befallen Job is less than what his secret behavior deserves. Job's reply is that God is just but His timing is not in man's hands. Jon Behrens Job gives us a perspective that there is also a spiritual dimension to events on earth that we do not see. That realization should serve to make us very charitable toward our brothers when they are being afflicted. Eliphaz accuses Job of acting like he believes he is doing God a favor by following His laws. He also believes that the calamity that his befallen Job is less than what his secret behavior deserves. Job's reply is that God is just but His timing is not in man's hands. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1329/job16_22-24.mp3 33:54 Sun, 26 Oct 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion After observing humanity for over 1600 years, God was disappointed with His creation and decided to destroy it all and start over. The proximate reason for that decision was the state of the human heart - evil continually. After the flood, His assessment did not change. So what did change that prompted Him to decide not to re-flood the place? Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. October 2025 After observing humanity for over 1600 years, God was disappointed with His creation and decided to destroy it all and start over. The proximate reason for that decision was the state of the human heart - evil continually. After the flood, His assessment did not change. So what did change that prompted Him to decide not to re-flood the place? https://crimsonthread.com/media/2092/humanheart25.mp3 14:57 Tue, 28 Oct 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Gibeon lies in the Saddle of Benjamin astride the north- south ridge route as well as the east-west route from the Jordan Valley to the coastal plain. It was a major city in a very strategic location. After the destruction of Ai, the Gibeonites knew that they were next and so planned a deception to get Israel to make a covenant and spare them from destruction. Once that covenant was made, the southern Canaanite kings attacked Gibeon forcing Israel to defend it. Jon Behrens Joshua is important both for historical and for prophetic reasons. Historically, it gives contest and background for the rest of Scripture. Prophetically, it prefigures the return of Messiah and the displacement of God's enemies. Gibeon lies in the Saddle of Benjamin astride the north- south ridge route as well as the east-west route from the Jordan Valley to the coastal plain. It was a major city in a very strategic location. After the destruction of Ai, the Gibeonites knew that they were next and so planned a deception to get Israel to make a covenant and spare them from destruction. Once that covenant was made, the southern Canaanite kings attacked Gibeon forcing Israel to defend it. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2093/josh25_9-10.mp3 29:43 Thu, 30 Oct 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Bildad expresses a common Christian belief, that it is inherently impossible for any man to be pure in God's eyes. Job answers that he understands the vast gap between man and God. He says, however that man is God's creation and is not inherently evil. Jon Behrens Job gives us a perspective that there is also a spiritual dimension to events on earth that we do not see. That realization should serve to make us very charitable toward our brothers when they are being afflicted. Bildad expresses a common Christian belief, that it is inherently impossible for any man to be pure in God's eyes. Job answers that he understands the vast gap between man and God. He says, however that man is God's creation and is not inherently evil. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1330/job16_25-28.mp3 28:39 Sun, 02 Nov 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Mark 12 begins with the Parable of the Wicked Tenants. This parable raises several questions. Who is it addressed to? There are at least three groups. In each context, what are the pathologies being addressed? What fruit does the owner expect in each context? How does this apply today? Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. November 2025 Mark 12 begins with the Parable of the Wicked Tenants. This parable raises several questions. Who is it addressed to? There are at least three groups. In each context, what are the pathologies being addressed? What fruit does the owner expect in each context? How does this apply today? https://crimsonthread.com/media/2094/vineyard25.mp3 18:01 Tue, 04 Nov 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion After the series of battles attendant to the 'long day', Joshua continued with the conquest of the south. With that complete, the King of Hazor gathered an army of all the peoples in the north. They gathered at the waters of Merom; very many horses and chariots. Joshua came up from the south and destroyed that army as well as all of the towns from which they had come. Jon Behrens Joshua is important both for historical and for prophetic reasons. Historically, it gives contest and background for the rest of Scripture. Prophetically, it prefigures the return of Messiah and the displacement of God's enemies. After the series of battles attendant to the 'long day', Joshua continued with the conquest of the south. With that complete, the King of Hazor gathered an army of all the peoples in the north. They gathered at the waters of Merom; very many horses and chariots. Joshua came up from the south and destroyed that army as well as all of the towns from which they had come. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2095/josh25_10-11.mp3 26:18 Thu, 06 Nov 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Having heard the accusations of his three friends, Job offers a summary defense of his life. He goes through a list of things that men do to be considered wicked and declares that he as never done any of them. Jon Behrens Job gives us a perspective that there is also a spiritual dimension to events on earth that we do not see. That realization should serve to make us very charitable toward our brothers when they are being afflicted. Having heard the accusations of his three friends, Job offers a summary defense of his life. He goes through a list of things that men do to be considered wicked and declares that he as never done any of them. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1331/job16_29-31.mp3 37:24 Sun, 09 Nov 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Faith and trust are related but distinct concepts. In relation to God, faith is the belief that He exists and that His word is true and reliable. Trust, on the other hand, involves acting on His word especially when one cannot see how that will turn out. When Abraham was told to sacrifice his son, he had no doubts about God's existence or that he had heard His word. So he obeyed, trusting that somehow God would honor His promise to establish a covenant with Isaac. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. November 2025 Faith and trust are related but distinct concepts. In relation to God, faith is the belief that He exists and that His word is true and reliable. Trust, on the other hand, involves acting on His word especially when one cannot see how that will turn out. When Abraham was told to sacrifice his son, he had no doubts about God's existence or that he had heard His word. So he obeyed, trusting that somehow God would honor His promise to establish a covenant with Isaac. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2096/trust25.mp3 16:38 Tue, 11 Nov 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Although there was still much land to conquer, Joshua proceeded to define tribal allotments on the west side of the Jordan River. For political reasons, he began with Judah and Joseph, putting them astride the central ridge and separated by the Saddle of Benjamin. The remaining seven tribes sent out survey parties and divided the rest of the land into parcels. Those parcels were assigned by lot, one to each tribe. Jon Behrens Joshua is important both for historical and for prophetic reasons. Historically, it gives contest and background for the rest of Scripture. Prophetically, it prefigures the return of Messiah and the displacement of God's enemies. Although there was still much land to conquer, Joshua proceeded to define tribal allotments on the west side of the Jordan River. For political reasons, he began with Judah and Joseph, putting them astride the central ridge and separated by the Saddle of Benjamin. The remaining seven tribes sent out survey parties and divided the rest of the land into parcels. Those parcels were assigned by lot, one to each tribe. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2097/josh25_12-19.mp3 34:47 Thu, 13 Nov 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Elihu has not spoken because of his youth, yet he does not find Job righteous. He believes that God does not punish for vengeance sake. Rather, punishment is meant to turn man from the path of destruction and set his feet on the path of righteousness. Jon Behrens Job gives us a perspective that there is also a spiritual dimension to events on earth that we do not see. That realization should serve to make us very charitable toward our brothers when they are being afflicted. Elihu has not spoken because of his youth, yet he does not find Job righteous. He believes that God does not punish for vengeance sake. Rather, punishment is meant to turn man from the path of destruction and set his feet on the path of righteousness. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1333/job16_32-35.mp3 31:53 Sun, 16 Nov 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion At his death God's promises to Abraham had not been fulfilled. Although he did have six sons, the only land he possessed was a burial plot for his wife. Yet Scripture says he was blessed in all things and and was full - contented. That is because he had a purpose and realized that God's plan would take generations. So too with us, having a purpose is what gives meaning to our lives. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. November 2025 At his death God's promises to Abraham had not been fulfilled. Although he did have six sons, the only land he possessed was a burial plot for his wife. Yet Scripture says he was blessed in all things and and was full - contented. That is because he had a purpose and realized that God's plan would take generations. So too with us, having a purpose is what gives meaning to our lives. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2098/purpose25.mp3 18:51 Tue, 18 Nov 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Having conquered the land, Joshua released the eastern tribes to return to their land and their families. These tribes built an altar by the Jordan to serve as a witness that they would always be a part of the people of God. As his final official act, Joshua and the tribal elders renewed the covenant with God. Jon Behrens Joshua is important both for historical and for prophetic reasons. Historically, it gives contest and background for the rest of Scripture. Prophetically, it prefigures the return of Messiah and the displacement of God's enemies. Having conquered the land, Joshua released the eastern tribes to return to their land and their families. These tribes built an altar by the Jordan to serve as a witness that they would always be a part of the people of God. As his final official act, Joshua and the tribal elders renewed the covenant with God. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2099/josh25_20-24.mp3 37:40 Thu, 20 Nov 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion In this second half of Elihu's statement, he gives a beautiful poem to the greatness of God. In this, he urges Job to consider his own insignificance in relation to God's majesty. Everything he says is true, but does not actually apply to Job's situation. Jon Behrens Job gives us a perspective that there is also a spiritual dimension to events on earth that we do not see. That realization should serve to make us very charitable toward our brothers when they are being afflicted. In this second half of Elihu's statement, he gives a beautiful poem to the greatness of God. In this, he urges Job to consider his own insignificance in relation to God's majesty. Everything he says is true, but does not actually apply to Job's situation. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1334/job16_35-37.mp3 33:30 Sun, 23 Nov 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion In Genesis 26 Isaac was run out of Gerar because he had become too powerful. As he moved, he reopened the wells his father had dug and which the Philistines had plugged up. As he did so, the Philistines drove him off and claimed the wells for themselves. In the story of Abraham and Isaac's wells and the Philistine's reaction, we have the entire plan of salvation and the basis of all the antisemitism in the world today. Consider the hatred that would cause herdsmen to stop up wells in the desert. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. November 2025 In Genesis 26 Isaac was run out of Gerar because he had become too powerful. As he moved, he reopened the wells his father had dug and which the Philistines had plugged up. As he did so, the Philistines drove him off and claimed the wells for themselves. In the story of Abraham and Isaac's wells and the Philistine's reaction, we have the entire plan of salvation and the basis of all the antisemitism in the world today. Consider the hatred that would cause herdsmen to stop up wells in the desert. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2100/wells25.mp3 15:35 Tue, 25 Nov 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Introduction and background to the letter. Paul first addresses factionalism within the church. Paul had planted the church earlier (Acts 18) and guided it for 18 months before moving on. Apollos had then come along and continued to teach there. Apparently, some new Christians had come to believe that there was some conflict between the two. Paul denies that, comparing himself to a foundation builder and Apollos to the one who erects an edifice on the prepared foundation. Jon Behrens Corinth was a seaport city where Paul had planted a church. The two letters are all that remains of what is obviously a larger conversation about theological questions and church governance. Introduction and background to the letter. Paul first addresses factionalism within the church. Paul had planted the church earlier (Acts 18) and guided it for 18 months before moving on. Apollos had then come along and continued to teach there. Apparently, some new Christians had come to believe that there was some conflict between the two. Paul denies that, comparing himself to a foundation builder and Apollos to the one who erects an edifice on the prepared foundation. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2101/1cor25_1-3.mp3 37:58 Thu, 27 Nov 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion God enters the conversation, rebukes Job's friends and gives Job an opportunity to present his case. Wisely, Job simply falls down in worship. At the end, Job forgives his friends and God restores to him double what he had lost. God's soliloquy is some of the greatest poetry ever written. Jon Behrens Job gives us a perspective that there is also a spiritual dimension to events on earth that we do not see. That realization should serve to make us very charitable toward our brothers when they are being afflicted. God enters the conversation, rebukes Job's friends and gives Job an opportunity to present his case. Wisely, Job simply falls down in worship. At the end, Job forgives his friends and God restores to him double what he had lost. God's soliloquy is some of the greatest poetry ever written. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1336/job16_38-42.mp3 39:14 Sun, 30 Nov 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Both Chanukah and Thanksgiving are celebrations to thank God for a successful rebellion against government that has exceeded its authority from God and become oppressive. God has never been impressed with human government, Historically when it has become oppressive and hostile to Him, He has supported rebellion. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. November 2025 Both Chanukah and Thanksgiving are celebrations to thank God for a successful rebellion against government that has exceeded its authority from God and become oppressive. God has never been impressed with human government, Historically when it has become oppressive and hostile to Him, He has supported rebellion. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2102/thanksgiving25.mp3 17:52 Tue, 02 Dec 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Paul uses the metaphor of leaven to condemn immoral behavior within the church. The idea being that if sin is tolerated and excused, it will spread and infect others. He instructs them to expel flagrant sinners from the body. He also chastens them about taking disputes between brothers to the secular authorities. In cases where secular law does not comport with God's law injustice will be the result. Jon Behrens Corinth was a seaport city where Paul had planted a church. The two letters are all that remains of what is obviously a larger conversation about theological questions and church governance. Paul uses the metaphor of leaven to condemn immoral behavior within the church. The idea being that if sin is tolerated and excused, it will spread and infect others. He instructs them to expel flagrant sinners from the body. He also chastens them about taking disputes between brothers to the secular authorities. In cases where secular law does not comport with God's law injustice will be the result. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2103/1cor25_4-6.mp3 33:56 Thu, 04 Dec 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion The birth of Samuel. Samuel's mother, Hannah, was barren and bitter about it. Her prayer and promise to God flows from that anguish of soul. After the birth of her son, she makes a song of praise. Mary's prayer, although shorter, is essentially the same. The background on the Priest Eli and his corrupt sons sets the scene for the entire book - the importance of fathers and the consequences of their failure. Jon Behrens The two books of Samuel chronicle the shift from a system of judges to a monarchy. The birth of Samuel. Samuel's mother, Hannah, was barren and bitter about it. Her prayer and promise to God flows from that anguish of soul. After the birth of her son, she makes a song of praise. Mary's prayer, although shorter, is essentially the same. The background on the Priest Eli and his corrupt sons sets the scene for the entire book - the importance of fathers and the consequences of their failure. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1843/1sam23_1-2.mp3 34:22 Sun, 07 Dec 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion In Scripture a yoke can be either a punishing burden impossible to bear or a tool to get useful work accomplished. Scripture presents the Pharisaic understanding of the Torah as the former while Christ described His yoke as easy and light. One of the dividing lines between the two is that Christ's words are true and the Pharisaic interpretation is not. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. December 2025 In Scripture a yoke can be either a punishing burden impossible to bear or a tool to get useful work accomplished. Scripture presents the Pharisaic understanding of the Torah as the former while Christ described His yoke as easy and light. One of the dividing lines between the two is that Christ's words are true and the Pharisaic interpretation is not. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2104/yokeofchrist25.mp3 17:24 Tue, 09 Dec 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion In chapter 7 Paul is answering specific questions which are unknown to us. His points about marriage are made in the expectation that the end times were upon them. Hence, some of his advice would seem to go contrary to Torah - remaining single for example. (This episode ends abruptly. We actually went on to chapters 8 and 9, but they form a unit with chapter 10 and will be presented next time.) Jon Behrens Corinth was a seaport city where Paul had planted a church. The two letters are all that remains of what is obviously a larger conversation about theological questions and church governance. In chapter 7 Paul is answering specific questions which are unknown to us. His points about marriage are made in the expectation that the end times were upon them. Hence, some of his advice would seem to go contrary to Torah - remaining single for example. (This episode ends abruptly. We actually went on to chapters 8 and 9, but they form a unit with chapter 10 and will be presented next time.) https://crimsonthread.com/media/2105/1cor25_7.mp3 22:13 Thu, 11 Dec 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion The ArK of the Covenant is captured by the Philistines at the battle of Aphek and the priests Hophni and Phinehas are killed. The Ark proves to be quite capable of taking care of itself and the Philistines hasten to send it back to Israel. Jon Behrens The two books of Samuel chronicle the shift from a system of judges to a monarchy. The ArK of the Covenant is captured by the Philistines at the battle of Aphek and the priests Hophni and Phinehas are killed. The Ark proves to be quite capable of taking care of itself and the Philistines hasten to send it back to Israel. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1845/1sam23_3-7.mp3 37:59 Sun, 14 Dec 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion There is a curious incident in the story of the sale of Joseph. When his father sends him to check on his brothers, he meets a stranger who tells him that his brothers have moved on to Dothan. Without that encounter the rest of the Torah would be entirely different. Joseph would not have been sold, he would not have interpreted Pharaoh's dreams and the Exodus would have been something else entirely. So too with most of history. Seemingly unimportant encounters wind up having important effects. God prefers to act subtly most of the time, so one can have a large effect on others and on history without being aware of God's hand. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. December 2025 There is a curious incident in the story of the sale of Joseph. When his father sends him to check on his brothers, he meets a stranger who tells him that his brothers have moved on to Dothan. Without that encounter the rest of the Torah would be entirely different. Joseph would not have been sold, he would not have interpreted Pharaoh's dreams and the Exodus would have been something else entirely. So too with most of history. Seemingly unimportant encounters wind up having important effects. God prefers to act subtly most of the time, so one can have a large effect on others and on history without being aware of God's hand. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2106/angelsunaware.mp3 18:02 Tue, 16 Dec 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Chapters 8-11 concern food sacrificed to idols. Here he says that although there is only one God and idols are not gods, not everyone understands that. Thus believers should not eat such food in order to avoid confusing those who either believe in idols or are unsure. He closes by saying that idols represent demons and that a believer should have nothing to do with them. Jon Behrens Corinth was a seaport city where Paul had planted a church. The two letters are all that remains of what is obviously a larger conversation about theological questions and church governance. Chapters 8-10 concern food sacrificed to idols. Here he says that although there is only one God and idols are not gods, not everyone understands that. Thus believers should not eat such food in order to avoid confusing those who either believe in idols or are unsure. He closes by saying that idols represent demons and that a believer should have nothing to do with them. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2107/1cor25_8-10.mp3 48:25 Thu, 18 Dec 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion When Samuel became old and it was obvious that his sons were not suitable to follow him, Israel asked that he get them a king so that they could be like all the other nations. God was displeased but told Samuel to do what they wanted. The system of judges, while subject to corruption just like every other human institution, structurally provided the greatest potential human liberty. A monarchy was a step away from that liberty and a distancing from God. Jon Behrens The two books of Samuel chronicle the shift from a system of judges to a monarchy. When Samuel became old and it was obvious that his sons were not suitable to follow him, Israel asked that he get them a king so that they could be like all the other nations. God was displeased but told Samuel to do what they wanted. The system of judges, while subject to corruption just like every other human institution, structurally provided the greatest potential human liberty. A monarchy was a step away from that liberty and a distancing from God. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1847/1sam23_8-9.mp3 31:07 Sun, 21 Dec 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion During Joseph's life, God took him through a crash course in character development. A key feature of this course was that it was neither easy nor pleasant. Similarly, Christ says the Way is hard and few will find it. That doesn't mean it is hidden. The Way is clearly laid out in Scripture. It means that while salvation is a gift from God, carrying that gift to fruition is hard and many will not succeed. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. December 2025 During Joseph's life, God took him through a crash course in character development. A key feature of this course was that it was neither easy nor pleasant. Similarly, Christ says the Way is hard and few will find it. That doesn't mean it is hidden. The Way is clearly laid out in Scripture. It means that while salvation is a gift from God, carrying that gift to fruition is hard and many will not succeed. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2108/theway25.mp3 18:02 Tue, 23 Dec 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion As with everything else in this letter, there was apparently division over Spiritual manifestations. It seems that those who had the 'flashier' gifts were exalting themselves over those who had the quieter ones. This seems especially to have been the case with tongues. Paul makes it clear that spiritual gifts are not for the benefit of the one who receives them, but rather are for the building up of the body. Jon Behrens Corinth was a seaport city where Paul had planted a church. The two letters are all that remains of what is obviously a larger conversation about theological questions and church governance. As with everything else in this letter, there was apparently division over Spiritual manifestations. It seems that those who had the 'flashier' gifts were exalting themselves over those who had the quieter ones. This seems especially to have been the case with tongues. Paul makes it clear that spiritual gifts are not for the benefit of the one who receives them, but rather are for the building up of the body. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2109/1cor25_12-14.mp3 39:36 Thu, 25 Dec 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Although neither God nor Samuel was pleased with Israel's request for a king, in choosing Saul God gave the project its best chance of success. Saul was from the buffer tribe of Benjamin; he was tall, handsome and brave; he was modest in that he didn't want the job. Jon Behrens The two books of Samuel chronicle the shift from a system of judges to a monarchy. Although neither God nor Samuel was pleased with Israel's request for a king, in choosing Saul God gave the project its best chance of success. Saul was from the buffer tribe of Benjamin; he was tall, handsome and brave; he was modest in that he didn't want the job. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1849/1sam23_10-12.mp3 38:57 Sun, 28 Dec 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion When Joseph finally has all eleven of his brothers kneeling before him, he has a choice to make. He can move them to Goshen without acknowledging his identity or he can forgive them. His choice to forgive is made possible because he was able to reframe being sold into slavery as being part of God's larger plan. In so doing, he freed himself from bitterness and resentment. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. December 2025 When Joseph finally has all eleven of his brothers kneeling before him, he has a choice to make. He can move them to Goshen without acknowledging his identity or he can forgive them. His choice to forgive is made possible because he was able to reframe being sold into slavery as being part of God's larger plan. In so doing, he freed himself from bitterness and resentment. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2110/josephforgives25.mp3 18:35 Tue, 30 Dec 2025 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Paul addresses the importance and nature of the resurrection. Although he had preached about the resurrection when he planted the church in Corinth, someone had subsequently cast doubt on the entire concept. In chapter 15, Paul affirms the fact that there were hundreds of witnesses to Christ's resurrection. He then explained why that was important. Finally, he discussed the nature of the resurrection body that believers were to receive. Jon Behrens Corinth was a seaport city where Paul had planted a church. The two letters are all that remains of what is obviously a larger conversation about theological questions and church governance. Paul addresses the importance and nature of the resurrection. Although he had preached about the resurrection when he planted the church in Corinth, someone had subsequently cast doubt on the entire concept. In chapter 15, Paul affirms the fact that there were hundreds of witnesses to Christ's resurrection. He then explained why that was important. Finally, he discussed the nature of the resurrection body that believers were to receive. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2111/1cor25_15-16.mp3 39:15 Thu, 01 Jan 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion This section begins with Jonathan destroying a Philistine garrison in the Saddle of Benjamin. That action caused the Philistines to send a large punitive expedition into central Israel. All Israel was clearly intimidated. In a second move Jonathan again destroyed a Philistine garrison which sowed confusion among the Philistines. Saul took advantage of that confusion to attack. In his zeal, he ordered that none of his army should eat until the battle was over. This was both rash and foolish because his men became exhausted and were unable to fully exploit their victory. Jon Behrens The two books of Samuel chronicle the shift from a system of judges to a monarchy. This section begins with Jonathan destroying a Philistine garrison in the Saddle of Benjamin. That action caused the Philistines to send a large punitive expedition into central Israel. All Israel was clearly intimidated. In a second move Jonathan again destroyed a Philistine garrison which sowed confusion among the Philistines. Saul took advantage of that confusion to attack. In his zeal, he ordered that none of his army should eat until the battle was over. This was both rash and foolish because his men became exhausted and were unable to fully exploit their victory. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1851/1sam23_13-14.mp3 45:24 Sun, 04 Jan 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Joseph weeps seven times. In every case his tears are in response to his relationship with his family. Even though he has available all of the power and resources of Egypt, he cannot make his brothers accept him. Similarly, God has all of the power and resources in the universe, yet He does not coerce us into having a relationship with Him. This Biblical concept is the origin of the American belief that government requires the consent of the governed. Inspired by Rabbi Sacks. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. January 2026 Joseph weeps seven times. In every case his tears are in response to his relationship with his family. Even though he has available all of the power and resources of Egypt, he cannot make his brothers accept him. Similarly, God has all of the power and resources in the universe, yet He does not coerce us into having a relationship with Him. This Biblical concept is the origin of the American belief that government requires the consent of the governed. Inspired by Rabbi Sacks. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2112/josephtears26.mp3 17:21 Tue, 06 Jan 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion It appears that someone had come to Corinth after Paul had left and called his apostleship into question. This first part of the letter addresses Paul's afflictions during the course of his ministry and the fact that he was comforted by God and sustained by the prayers of believers within the churches he had planted. Jon Behrens Corinth was a seaport city where Paul had planted a church. The two letters are all that remains of what is obviously a larger conversation about theological questions and church governance. It appears that someone had come to Corinth after Paul had left and called his apostleship into question. This first part of the letter addresses Paul's afflictions during the course of his ministry and the fact that he was comforted by God and sustained by the prayers of believers within the churches he had planted. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2113/2cor25_1-2.mp3 27:40 Thu, 08 Jan 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion When Saul was sent by God to exterminate the Amalekites. While he defeated them in battle, he took their king as prisoner and the best of their livestock and goods as plunder. He further raised a monument to himself at Carmel. When confronted by Samuel, he deflected the blame to his troops. This disobedience and lack of character caused God to reject Saul as king and choose David as his replacement. Jon Behrens The two books of Samuel chronicle the shift from a system of judges to a monarchy. When Saul was sent by God to exterminate the Amalekites. While he defeated them in battle, he took their king as prisoner and the best of their livestock and goods as plunder. He further raised a monument to himself at Carmel. When confronted by Samuel, he deflected the blame to his troops. This disobedience and lack of character caused God to reject Saul as king and choose David as his replacement. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1853/1sam23_15-16.mp3 34:47 Sun, 11 Jan 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion When God encountered Moses at the burning bush, He told him that he was to return to Egypt and free the Hebrews from Egyptian slavery. Moses, not wanting to go, responded with two questions: "Who am I?" and then "Who are you?" Each of those questions has multiple possible meanings and both are still relevant for the believer today. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. January 2026 When God encountered Moses at the burning bush, He told him that he was to return to Egypt and free the Hebrews from Egyptian slavery. Moses, not wanting to go, responded with two questions: "Who am I?" and then "Who are you?" Each of those questions has multiple possible meanings and both are still relevant for the believer today. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2114/whoami26.mp3 17:25 Tue, 13 Jan 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion In describing the stone tablets delivered by Moses as a ministry of condemnation, Paul is not speaking of their content but rather of the medium. God's word was and is intended to be written on hearts of flesh. Having those words engraved in stone is a metaphor for hearts of stone. Jon Behrens Corinth was a seaport city where Paul had planted a church. The two letters are all that remains of what is obviously a larger conversation about theological questions and church governance. In describing the stone tablets delivered by Moses as a ministry of condemnation, Paul is not speaking of their content but rather of the medium. God's word was and is intended to be written on hearts of flesh. Having those words engraved in stone is a metaphor for hearts of stone. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2115/2cor25_3-4.mp3 39:55 Thu, 15 Jan 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion The story of David's victory over the giant Goliath is well known to every Sunday school student. What is not so widely known is that, in addition to his spiritual advantage, David also had the tactical advantage. Jon Behrens The two books of Samuel chronicle the shift from a system of judges to a monarchy. The story of David's victory over the giant Goliath is well known to every Sunday school student. What is not so widely known is that, in addition to his spiritual advantage, David also had the tactical advantage. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1855/1sam23_17-18.mp3 39:05 Sun, 18 Jan 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion The Egyptian magicians are able to duplicate the first two of God's plagues, water into blood and frogs. When they are unable to produce gnats, they proclaimed that "This is the finger of God". This prefigures a nineteenth century intellectual hubris that only the things that science could not explain need be attributed to God. God responded to the Egyptians with satire - so also with the nineteenth century. (Idea from Rabbi Sacks.) Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. January 2026 The Egyptian magicians are able to duplicate the first two of God's plagues, water into blood and frogs. When they are unable to produce gnats, they proclaimed that "This is the finger of God". This prefigures a nineteenth century intellectual hubris that only the things that science could not explain need be attributed to God. God responded to the Egyptians with satire - so also with the nineteenth century. (Idea from Rabbi Sacks.) https://crimsonthread.com/media/2116/godofthegaps.mp3 18:23 Tue, 20 Jan 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Paul speaks of the day to come when we will shed our earthly tent and enter a heavenly building. It is there that all of God's promises to those who trust in His Son will be fulfilled. In the mean while, we live through the trials inherent in the earthly tent, working to spread the news of His Kingdom and confident that eternal life awaits. Jon Behrens Corinth was a seaport city where Paul had planted a church. The two letters are all that remains of what is obviously a larger conversation about theological questions and church governance. Paul speaks of the day to come when we will shed our earthly tent and enter a heavenly building. It is there that all of God's promises to those who trust in His Son will be fulfilled. In the mean while, we live through the trials inherent in the earthly tent, working to spread the news of His Kingdom and confident that eternal life awaits. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2117/2cor25_5-7.mp3 31:28 Thu, 22 Jan 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion As David continued to succeed in all that he did, Saul became increasingly paranoid and unstable. What began as throwing a spear at David on impulse changed into an official condemnation and edict that David be murdered. In this, Saul's own children sided with David and helped him escape. Thus began David's time in exile and the wilderness. Jon Behrens The two books of Samuel chronicle the shift from a system of judges to a monarchy. As David continued to succeed in all that he did, Saul became increasingly paranoid and unstable. What began as throwing a spear at David on impulse changed into an official condemnation and edict that David be murdered. In this, Saul's own children sided with David and helped him escape. Thus began David's time in exile and the wilderness. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1857/1sam23_19-21.mp3 37:24 Sun, 25 Jan 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion In 1873 Horatio Spafford sent his wife and four daughters ahead of himself to England. Their ship was struck by another and his daughters were all killed. As he crossed the Atlantic himself, he wrote the words to the hymn. This a masterpiece of beauty and sound, sturdy theology. The lessons are very apt for today's climate in the west. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. January 2026 In 1873 Horatio Spafford sent his wife and four daughters ahead of himself to England. Their ship was struck by another and his daughters were all killed. As he crossed the Atlantic himself, he wrote the words to the hymn. This a masterpiece of beauty and sound, sturdy theology. The lessons are very apt for today's climate in the west. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2118/wellwithsoul.mp3 14:44 Tue, 27 Jan 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Paul encourages the Corinthians' generosity in setting aside an offering of grain to be sent to relieve a famine in Jerusalem. In that process he takes great pains to let them know that there will be impartial witnesses accompanying the shipment. Jon Behrens Corinth was a seaport city where Paul had planted a church. The two letters are all that remains of what is obviously a larger conversation about theological questions and church governance. Paul encourages the Corinthians' generosity in setting aside an offering of grain to be sent to relieve a famine in Jerusalem. In that process he takes great pains to let them know that there will be impartial witnesses accompanying the shipment. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2119/2cor25_8-9.mp3 25:06 Thu, 29 Jan 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Saul's paranoia was so severe that his own people could see it. He accused the priests of conspiring with David against him and ordered them killed. The Israelites would not do it, so it fell to an Edomite. David had to constantly stay on the move in southern Judah to avoid being trapped and killed by Saul. Yet for all that, when presented with the opportunity to kill Saul as he was relieving himself in a cave, David did not raise his hand against the Lord's anointed. If he could stay alive, that decision would pay dividends when David united the nation after Saul's death. Jon Behrens The two books of Samuel chronicle the shift from a system of judges to a monarchy. Saul's paranoia was so severe that his own people could see it. He accused the priests of conspiring with David against him and ordered them killed. The Israelites would not do it, so it fell to an Edomite. David had to constantly stay on the move in southern Judah to avoid being trapped and killed by Saul. Yet for all that, when presented with the opportunity to kill Saul as he was relieving himself in a cave, David did not raise his hand against the Lord's anointed. If he could stay alive, that decision would pay dividends when David united the nation after Saul's death. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1860/1sam23_22-24.mp3 34:37 Sun, 01 Feb 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Water figures prominently in Exodus and, indeed in the whole Bible. Beginning with crossing the Red Sea where the nation Israel is born and Egypt dies, the story goes to bitter water, then twelve springs then water from the rock and finally to Moses striking the rock and being denied entry into the Land. God uses water both to bring forth life and to destroy. In Exodus water is used to outline the entire plan of salvation for the whole world. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. February 2026 Water figures prominently in Exodus and, indeed in the whole Bible. Beginning with crossing the Red Sea where the nation Israel is born and Egypt dies, the story goes to bitter water, then twelve springs then water from the rock and finally to Moses striking the rock and being denied entry into the Land. God uses water both to bring forth life and to destroy. In Exodus water is used to outline the entire plan of salvation for the whole world. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2120/water26.mp3 17:55 Tue, 03 Feb 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion There seem to have been two question raised about Paul's qualifications and ministry. The first concerned the difference between Paul's letters and his demeanor in person. This might be cause to wonder if it was really Paul who had written the letters. The second concerned his qualifications. This may mean that the problem in Corinth was similar to that in Galatia where Messianic Pharisees were attempting to impose Talmudic rules on the gentiles. Jon Behrens Corinth was a seaport city where Paul had planted a church. The two letters are all that remains of what is obviously a larger conversation about theological questions and church governance. There seem to have been two question raised about Paul's qualifications and ministry. The first concerned the difference between Paul's letters and his demeanor in person. This might be cause to wonder if it was really Paul who had written the letters. The second concerned his qualifications. This may mean that the problem in Corinth was similar to that in Galatia where Messianic Pharisees were attempting to impose Talmudic rules on the gentiles. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2121/2cor25_10-11.mp3 29:36 Thu, 05 Feb 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion While evading Saul, David and his men lived by raiding. In this he spared Israelites and even offered them protection from rival tribes. This forms the background for his marriage to Abigail. When her husband, the fool, refused to let David and his men share in a feast, David vowed to kill him and his men to avenge the insult. Abigail's quick action forestalled that event and when Nabal died, David married her. After David again spared Saul, he had had enough dodging and moved his operations out of Judah and into Philistia. Jon Behrens The two books of Samuel chronicle the shift from a system of judges to a monarchy. While evading Saul, David and his men lived by raiding. In this he spared Israelites and even offered them protection from rival tribes. This forms the background for his marriage to Abigail. When her husband, the fool, refused to let David and his men share in a feast, David vowed to kill him and his men to avenge the insult. Abigail's quick action forestalled that event and when Nabal died, David married her. After David again spared Saul, he had had enough dodging and moved his operations out of Judah and into Philistia. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1862/1sam23_25-27.mp3 37:18 Sun, 08 Feb 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion There is a liberal mantra that you cannot legislate morality. That is precisely what God did do at Sinai. What He did not do was force a heart change in the Israelite people. The Torah codified God's vision of a moral society. That vision has not wavered, Christ did not change it. Just like the Pharisees, the church today has drifted away from God's design as presented in the Torah. We can expect pretty much the same results. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. February 2026 There is a liberal mantra that you cannot legislate morality. That is precisely what God did do at Sinai. What He did not do was force a heart change in the Israelite people. The Torah codified God's vision of a moral society. That vision has not wavered, Christ did not change it. Just like the Pharisees, the church today has drifted away from God's design as presented in the Torah. We can expect pretty much the same results. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2122/torah26.mp3 19:21 Tue, 10 Feb 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion In defending his ministry, Paul mentions a thorn in his flesh that God has not seen fit to remove. This was almost surely the 'super apostles' who have been leading astray the gentiles that Paul has brought into the Kingdom. He also says he intends to visit Corinth again and hopes that he will not have to use the authority given to him by Christ to chasten the Corinthians. Jon Behrens Corinth was a seaport city where Paul had planted a church. The two letters are all that remains of what is obviously a larger conversation about theological questions and church governance. In defending his ministry, Paul mentions a thorn in his flesh that God has not seen fit to remove. This was almost surely the 'super apostles' who have been leading astray the gentiles that Paul has brought into the Kingdom. He also says he intends to visit Corinth again and hopes that he will not have to use the authority given to him by Christ to chasten the Corinthians. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2123/2cor25_12-13.mp3 29:58 Thu, 12 Feb 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Before his final battle with the Philistines, Saul had lost all contact with God. In desperation, he consulted a necromancer who channeled the ghost of Samuel who predicted Saul's defeat and death. David meanwhile was rejected when he tried to join the Philistine army fighting against Israel. This was quite providential because he would have had a very difficult time uniting Israel under his reign had he sided with their enemies. Jon Behrens The two books of Samuel chronicle the shift from a system of judges to a monarchy. Before his final battle with the Philistines, Saul had lost all contact with God. In desperation, he consulted a necromancer who channeled the ghost of Samuel who predicted Saul's defeat and death. David meanwhile was rejected when he tried to join the Philistine army fighting against Israel. This was quite providential because he would have had a very difficult time uniting Israel under his reign had he sided with their enemies. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1864/1sam23_28-31.mp3 38:33 Sun, 15 Feb 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Unbelievers often mock Scripture because of the instructions about how to manage slavery. Slavery has always existed and continues to exist world wide today. For example prisoners in the county jail are forced to mop the floors, wash the dishes, collect trash along the roads, etc. They are, in fact, slaves for the duration of their sentence. What God gives in Torah are rules to prevent unnecessarily harsh conditions for those who are enslaved. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. February 2026 Unbelievers often mock Scripture because of the instructions about how to manage slavery. Slavery has always existed and continues to exist world wide today. For example prisoners in the county jail are forced to mop the floors, wash the dishes, collect trash along the roads, etc. They are, in fact, slaves for the duration of their sentence. What God gives in Torah are rules to prevent unnecessarily harsh conditions for those who are enslaved. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2124/slavery26.mp3 17:20 Tue, 17 Feb 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Although mostly famous for the prophet being swallowed by a fish, Jonah is about the tension between justice and mercy. Jonah wants strict justice for Nineveh and fears that God will change His mind and extend them mercy. That, indeed, is what happens and so Jonah asks God to take his life. God explains things to him through the vehicle of a tree and a worm. Jon Behrens There is more to Jonah than three days in the belly of a fish. Although mostly famous for the prophet being swallowed by a fish, Jonah is about the tension between justice and mercy. Jonah wants strict justice for Nineveh and fears that God will change His mind and extend them mercy. That, indeed, is what happens and so Jonah asks God to take his life. God explains things to him through the vehicle of a tree and a worm. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2125/jonah26.mp3 32:14 Thu, 19 Feb 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion With Saul's death, David was free to begin the process of becoming king. He made a number of deft political moves that first got him installed as king over Judah ruling from Hebron. In the north, Abner had installed Ish-botheth as king to replace his father Saul. Ish-bosheth, however, was not nearly so astute as was David. He alienated Abner, and so began David's moves to consolidate the nation under his reign. Jon Behrens The two books of Samuel chronicle the shift from a system of judges to a monarchy. With Saul's death, David was free to begin the process of becoming king. He made a number of deft political moves that first got him installed as king over Judah ruling from Hebron. In the north, Abner had installed Ish-botheth as king to replace his father Saul. Ish-bosheth, however, was not nearly so astute as was David. He alienated Abner, and so began David's moves to consolidate the nation under his reign. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1866/2sam23_1-3.mp3 42:51 Sun, 22 Feb 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion In Luke 3, when baptizing in the wilderness, John addressed those coming to him as a brood of vipers; especially those who had no intention of repenting of their sins. Religious ritual without the intention of a behavior change is futile. True repentance is measured by the fruit that it produces. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. February 2026 In Luke 3, when baptizing in the wilderness, John addressed those coming to him as a brood of vipers; especially those who had no intention of repenting of their sins. Religious ritual without the intention of a behavior change is futile. True repentance is measured by the fruit that it produces. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2126/repentance26.mp3 14:26 Tue, 24 Feb 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Peter is writing to Hebrew exiles north of Israel in the Black Sea region. He assures them that they have an inheritance that for now is in Heaven but will be possessed at the coming of Christ. He also says that the trials that they are currently experiencing are to prove their faith. Jon Behrens Peter was the Apostle sent to take the Gospel to Hebrews. As such his letters assume a familiarity with Scripture. Peter is writing to Hebrew exiles north of Israel in the Black Sea region. He assures them that they have an inheritance that for now is in Heaven but will be possessed at the coming of Christ. He also says that the trials that they are currently experiencing are to prove their faith. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2127/1pet26_1.mp3 38:22 Thu, 26 Feb 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion After the assassination of Ishbosheth David was able to unite all Israel under his reign and move his throne to Jerusalem. When he tried to bring the Ark into Jerusalem, he did not follow God's instructions as given in the Torah. This error cost Uzzah his life. Jon Behrens The two books of Samuel chronicle the shift from a system of judges to a monarchy. After the assassination of Ishbosheth David was able to unite all Israel under his reign and move his throne to Jerusalem. When he tried to bring the Ark into Jerusalem, he did not follow God's instructions as given in the Torah. This error cost Uzzah his life. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1868/2sam23_4-6.mp3 32:55 Sun, 01 Mar 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion In Exodus, Israel is told to crush olives to make oil for the light. In life adversity, being crushed, is never to be desired even though it happens to everyone in varying degrees. When the heroes of the Bible, Job, Daniel, Esther, Mordecai, Y'shua, Paul are crushed, they respond by bringing light into the world. The question they ask when faced with adversity is not, "Why me?" Rather it is "What do I do now?" Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. February 2026 In Exodus, Israel is told to crush olives to make oil for the light. In life adversity, being crushed, is never to be desired even though it happens to everyone in varying degrees. When the heroes of the Bible, Job, Daniel, Esther, Mordecai, Y'shua, Paul are crushed, they respond by bringing light into the world. The question they ask when faced with adversity is not, "Why me?" Rather it is "What do I do now?" https://crimsonthread.com/media/2128/crushedforthelight.mp3 15:48 Tue, 03 Mar 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Peter assures his readers that they have not been cast off by Christ and that they will be living stones in the edifice of which Christ is the cornerstone. In this he urges them to be good citizens of the places where they are exiles; both for their own good and as a witness for the Gospel. Jon Behrens Peter was the Apostle sent to take the Gospel to Hebrews. As such his letters assume a familiarity with Scripture. Peter assures his readers that they have not been cast off by Christ and that they will be living stones in the edifice of which Christ is the cornerstone. In this he urges them to be good citizens of the places where they are exiles; both for their own good and as a witness for the Gospel. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2129/1pet26_2.mp3 34:56 Thu, 05 Mar 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Having gotten Israel united, David proceeded to subdue the surrounding nations. At his height David's realm extended from the Brook of Egypt to the Euphrates River. With the exceptions of the Philistine enclave on the southern coast and Phoenicians in Tyre and Sidon Israel held sway over the entire extent of God's promise to Abraham. Jon Behrens The two books of Samuel chronicle the shift from a system of judges to a monarchy. Having gotten Israel united, David proceeded to subdue the surrounding nations. At his height David's realm extended from the Brook of Egypt to the Euphrates River. With the exceptions of the Philistine enclave on the southern coast and Phoenicians in Tyre and Sidon Israel held sway over the entire extent of God's promise to Abraham. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1870/2sam23_7-10.mp3 36:19 Sun, 08 Mar 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion In making the Golden Calf, Israel violated one of God's clearest boundaries. Only Moses' intervention prevented their immediate destruction. The human impulses that led Israel to worship idols have not gone away; they are still very much active. The vehicle has changed but the underlying urge to get a "better deal" than God says is proper has not changed. Going to an illicit spiritual relationship may provide short term satisfaction, but the end is misery and death. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. March 2026 In making the Golden Calf, Israel violated one of God's clearest boundaries. Only Moses' intervention prevented their immediate destruction. The human impulses that led Israel to worship idols have not gone away; they are still very much active. The vehicle has changed but the underlying urge to get a "better deal" than God says is proper has not changed. Going to an illicit spiritual relationship may provide short term satisfaction, but the end is misery and death. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2130/kitisa26.mp3 20:16 Tue, 10 Mar 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion A popular web site had an article accusing Messianics of being 'Judaizers' and heretics. The article asserted that one did not have to become a Jew to enter the Kingdom of God - which is absolutely true. It also said that the Torah had been abrogated by the Messiah - which is absolutely false. That assertion is based on a misreading of Colossians 2. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. December 2021 A popular web site had an article accusing Messianics of being 'Judaizers' and heretics. The article asserted that one did not have to become a Jew to enter the Kingdom of God - which is absolutely true. It also said that the Torah had been abrogated by the Messiah - which is absolutely false. That assertion is based on a misreading of Colossians 2. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1737/christmas21.mp3 27:41 Thu, 12 Mar 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion There is more to the story of David and Bathsheba than you were probably taught in Sunday school. This is a complex story of court politics which will have ramifications for the remainder of David's reign. Jon Behrens The two books of Samuel chronicle the shift from a system of judges to a monarchy. There is more to the story of David and Bathsheba than you were probably taught in Sunday school. This is a complex story of court politics which will have ramifications for the remainder of David's reign. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1872/2sam23_11-12.mp3 36:52 Sun, 15 Mar 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Christians today do not typically observe Shabbat, believing that everything changed after the Resurrection. Some, citing Colossians 2, assert that it was nailed to the cross along with the rest of the law. Is this correct? If not, does it really matter? Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. March 2026 Christians today do not typically observe Shabbat, believing that everything changed after the Resurrection. Some, citing Colossians 2, assert that it was nailed to the cross along with the rest of the law. Is this correct? If not, does it really matter? https://crimsonthread.com/media/2131/shabbat26.mp3 18:47 Tue, 17 Mar 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Peter exhorts his readers to good conduct, first in the family, then in the exile community and finally in society at large. This is to serve several purposes. First, because it is pleasing to God. Then that it will strengthen the family and the exiles. A bad example will also hinder the spread of the Gospel. Finally, it is the best defense against persecution. Although persecution may come, it is best not to deserve it. Jon Behrens Peter was the Apostle sent to take the Gospel to Hebrews. As such his letters assume a familiarity with Scripture. Peter exhorts his readers to good conduct, first in the family, then in the exile community and finally in society at large. This is to serve several purposes. First, because it is pleasing to God. Then that it will strengthen the family and the exiles. A bad example will also hinder the spread of the Gospel. Finally, it is the best defense against persecution. Although persecution may come, it is best not to deserve it. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2132/1pet26_3-4.mp3 33:06 Thu, 19 Mar 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion David's firstborn son, Amnon, raped his half sister Tamar. Tamar's brother Absalom secretly planned vengeance. As prophesied by Nathan, this began a string of tragedies within David's family. Jon Behrens The two books of Samuel chronicle the shift from a system of judges to a monarchy. David's firstborn son, Amnon, raped his half sister Tamar. Tamar's brother Absalom secretly planned vengeance. As prophesied by Nathan, this began a string of tragedies within David's family. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1874/2sam23_13-14.mp3 37:50 Sun, 22 Mar 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Leviticus is the central book of the Torah and as such is arguably the most important. This is where God tells humanity how He wants to be approached and how we safely can interact with Him. The book begins with sacrifice. Contrary to the perception of many, most of the sacrifices in the Tabernacle had nothing to do with sin. Those that did concern sin only covered unintentional sins. As such they do not conflict with the work of Christ in any way. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. March 2026 Leviticus is the central book of the Torah and as such is arguably the most important. This is where God tells humanity how He wants to be approached and how we safely can interact with Him. The book begins with sacrifice. Contrary to the perception of many, most of the sacrifices in the Tabernacle had nothing to do with sin. Those that did concern sin only covered unintentional sins. As such they do not conflict with the work of Christ in any way. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2133/sacrice26.mp3 18:33 Tue, 24 Mar 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion 1 Peter closes with an exhortation to good behavior especially in the face of worldly persecution. 2 Peter opens with the description of a process or algorithm for increasing ones fruitfulness in the Kingdom of God. Jon Behrens Peter was the Apostle sent to take the Gospel to Hebrews. As such his letters assume a familiarity with Scripture. 1 Peter closes with an exhortation to good behavior especially in the face of worldly persecution. 2 Peter opens with the description of a process or algorithm for increasing ones fruitfulness in the Kingdom of God. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2134/1pet26_4-2pet26_1.mp3 29:49 Thu, 26 Mar 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion After his adultery with Bathsheba, God cursed David saying that evil would come upon him from his own family. David's son Absalom would be the vehicle for the outworking of that curse. Jon Behrens The two books of Samuel chronicle the shift from a system of judges to a monarchy. After his adultery with Bathsheba, God cursed David saying that evil would come upon him from his own family. David's son Absalom would be the vehicle for the outworking of that curse. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1876/2sam23_15-16.mp3 36:11 Sun, 29 Mar 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion When Job is suffering, his three friends keep accusing him of hidden sin for which he is being punished. His response is that they have the platitudes correct but that is not his situation and those platitudes don't apply. With the rise of AI people are turning to chatbots for answers to all sorts of questions. It is inevitable that some of those questions will be spiritual. The very grave danger is that such people will see the bot as an intermediary between themselves and God. That is precisely the sin that Israel committed in the wilderness with the Golden Calf. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. March 2026 When Job is suffering, his three friends keep accusing him of hidden sin for which he is being punished. His response is that they have the platitudes correct but that is not his situation and those platitudes don't apply. With the rise of AI people are turning to chatbots for answers to all sorts of questions. It is inevitable that some of those questions will be spiritual. The very grave danger is that such people will see the bot as an intermediary between themselves and God. That is precisely the sin that Israel committed in the wilderness with the Golden Calf. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2135/chatbot26.mp3 15:46 Tue, 31 Mar 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion After having instructed his readers on the way to godliness, Peter switches to warning them about false prophets and teachers. These, he says, will preach sensuality which will be attractive to those who are unaware or are so inclined. Those who follow such teachers will wind up worse off than if they had never know Christ. Jon Behrens Peter was the Apostle sent to take the Gospel to Hebrews. As such his letters assume a familiarity with Scripture. After having instructed his readers on the way to godliness, Peter switches to warning them about false prophets and teachers. These, he says, will preach sensuality which will be attractive to those who are unaware or are so inclined. Those who follow such teachers will wind up worse off than if they had never know Christ. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2136/2pet26_2.mp3 33:13 Thu, 02 Apr 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Bathsheba's grandfather, Ahithophel, advised Absalom to pursue David immediately. When that advice was not followed, the rebellion was essentially lost. Although David prevailed, the death of his son was devastating. Especially since he knew that the whole thing was his own fault. Jon Behrens The two books of Samuel chronicle the shift from a system of judges to a monarchy. Bathsheba's grandfather, Ahithophel, advised Absalom to pursue David immediately. When that advice was not followed, the rebellion was essentially lost. Although David prevailed, the death of his son was devastating. Especially since he knew that the whole thing was his own fault. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1878/2sam23_17-19.mp3 35:31 Sun, 05 Apr 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion At Passover we remember and celebrate the birth of God's firstborn; when the Hebrews went out through the bloody door, Israel was born. Today there are powerful forces seeking to eradicate Judaism and Christianity from the world and replace it with Islam or some secular form of collectivism. Instead of uniting to resist, Christians are fragmented and arguing. One of the wedge issues splitting us is the question of who are the Jews and what is Israel. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. April 2026 At Passover we remember and celebrate the birth of God's firstborn; when the Hebrews went out through the bloody door, Israel was born. Today there are powerful forces seeking to eradicate Judaism and Christianity from the world and replace it with Islam or some secular form of collectivism. Instead of uniting to resist, Christians are fragmented and arguing. One of the wedge issues splitting us is the question of who are the Jews and what is Israel. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2137/pesach26.mp3 15:18 Tue, 07 Apr 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Peter closes out his letter with an exhortation not to be led astray by scoffers who mock the belief that Christ will return and establish His reign of righteousness. He assures his readers that, just as God destroyed the previous creation with a flood, He will destroy the present one by fire and create a new heaven and earth. Jon Behrens Peter was the Apostle sent to take the Gospel to Hebrews. As such his letters assume a familiarity with Scripture. Peter closes out his letter with an exhortation not to be led astray by scoffers who mock the belief that Christ will return and establish His reign of righteousness. He assures his readers that, just as God destroyed the previous creation with a flood, He will destroy the present one by fire and create a new heaven and earth. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2138/2pet26_3.mp3 27:14 Thu, 09 Apr 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion After putting down the rebellion of his son, David had the task of restoring and reuniting the kingdom. In this process he acted with his usual political skill. He refrained from acting in anger and taking vengeance upon those who sided with Absalom. Jon Behrens The two books of Samuel chronicle the shift from a system of judges to a monarchy. After putting down the rebellion of his son, David had the task of restoring and reuniting the kingdom. In this process he acted with his usual political skill. He refrained from acting in anger and taking vengeance upon those who sided with Absalom. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1880/2sam23_19-21.mp3 43:16 Sun, 12 Apr 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion During the dedication of the Tabernacle, Nadab and Abihu died when they brought unauthorized fire before the Lord. Despite an abundance of speculation as to their motivation, that is not what is important here. Rather, the problem is that they tried to introduce something common into holy space. That was not permitted. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. April 2026 During the dedication of the Tabernacle, Nadab and Abihu died when they brought unauthorized fire before the Lord. Despite an abundance of speculation as to their motivation, that is not what is important here. Rather, the problem is that they tried to introduce something common into holy space. That was not permitted. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2139/nadavabihu26.mp3 18:36 Tue, 14 Apr 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Attributed to the brother of Y'shua, James focuses on practical application of the Word of God to a believer's life. In chapter 1, he starts with a paraphrase of Proverbs 2 - how to seek God's wisdom - and finishes with an admonition that the believer should put God's Word into practice or risk becoming futile in his religion. Jon Behrens James, the brother of Y'shua, presents a vital balance between faith in God and the importance of action to that faith. Attributed to the brother of Y'shua, James focuses on practical application of the Word of God to a believer's life. In chapter 1, he starts with a paraphrase of Proverbs 2 - how to seek God's wisdom - and finishes with an admonition that the believer should put God's Word into practice or risk becoming futile in his religion. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2140/james26_1.mp3 29:01 Thu, 16 Apr 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Toward the end of his life David decided to number the men in his kingdom. Joab thought that was a bad idea but was overruled. God was displeased with David's hubris and sent a plague upon Israel. This incident lead to the purchase of a threshing floor that would become the site of the Temple. Jon Behrens The two books of Samuel chronicle the shift from a system of judges to a monarchy. Toward the end of his life David decided to number the men in his kingdom. Joab thought that was a bad idea but was overruled. God was displeased with David's hubris and sent a plague upon Israel. This incident lead to the purchase of a threshing floor that would become the site of the Temple. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1882/2sam23_22-24.mp3 34:54 Sun, 19 Apr 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion In the sermon on the plain, Y'shua is speaking to His disciples and explaining what He expects of them. He describes His own character as the Lamb and tells them to emulate that. He also tells them that whatever standard they use with others will be applied to them and that, if they are successful, they will have a great reward. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. April 2026 In the sermon on the plain, Y'shua is speaking to His disciples and explaining what He expects of them. He describes His own character as the Lamb and tells them to emulate that. He also tells them that whatever standard they use with others will be applied to them and that, if they are successful, they will have a great reward. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2142/sermonontheplain.mp3 15:45 Tue, 21 Apr 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion James writes of unrighteous partiality based on perceived wealth. In God's eyes, a faithful poor person is preferred over an unrighteous wealthy one. He then goes on to speak of the proper attitude toward works., basically saying that a profession of faith that does not translate into good works is in vain. Jon Behrens James, the brother of Y'shua, presents a vital balance between faith in God and the importance of action to that faith. James writes of unrighteous partiality based on perceived wealth. In God's eyes, a faithful poor person is preferred over an unrighteous wealthy one. He then goes on to speak of the proper attitude toward works., basically saying that a profession of faith that does not translate into good works is in vain. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2143/james26_2.mp3 32:36 Thu, 23 Apr 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion David's reign comes to an end. Bathsheba short circuits Adonijah's attempt to succeed his father and David anoints Solomon. David also alerts his son to a list of people to either watch or execute because they will be a threat to his reign. Jon Behrens The two books of Samuel chronicle the shift from a system of judges to a monarchy. David's reign comes to an end. Bathsheba short circuits Adonijah's attempt to succeed his father and David anoints Solomon. David also alerts his son to a list of people to either watch or execute because they will be a threat to his reign. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1884/1kings23_1-2.mp3 36:54 Sun, 26 Apr 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Leviticus is the center of the Torah and, since it describes how God is to be approached and worshiped, it is the most important of the books in the TANAK. In Leviticus 19 and 20 God defines how Israel is to behave as a holy people in the presence of a holy God. This behavior is to the benefit of the nation. They will be blessed if they follow God's instructions. More important, however, is that Israel's holiness is important to God's purposes. When they follow His laws, they become ambassadors of His goodness. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. April 2026 Leviticus is the center of the Torah and, since it describes how God is to be approached and worshiped, it is the most important of the books in the TANAK. In Leviticus 19 and 20 God defines how Israel is to behave as a holy people in the presence of a holy God. This behavior is to the benefit of the nation. They will be blessed if they follow God's instructions. More important, however, is that Israel's holiness is important to God's purposes. When they follow His laws, they become ambassadors of His goodness. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2144/holiness26.mp3 18:20 Tue, 28 Apr 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion The tongue is both hidden and visible. It serves as the gateway for the things of the heart to be revealed. When governed by wisdom, it promotes societal well being. When the heart is wicked or foolish, it can cause great harm. Jon Behrens James, the brother of Y'shua, presents a vital balance between faith in God and the importance of action to that faith. The tongue is both hidden and visible. It serves as the gateway for the things of the heart to be revealed. When governed by wisdom, it promotes societal well being. When the heart is wicked or foolish, it can cause great harm. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2145/james26_3.mp3 28:30 Thu, 30 Apr 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Elijah, distressed by the behavior of Israel, turns off the rain. The resulting drought sets up the remainder of his ministry. Jon Behrens Elijah and Elisha are major figures in the TANAK. Together they performed a number of miracles that prefigured those done by Y'shua. Their actions and prophecies figure into the End Times. Elijah, distressed by the behavior of Israel, turns off the rain. The resulting drought sets up the remainder of his ministry. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1421/elijah_1.mp3 28:13 Sun, 03 May 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion In Scripture there are three distinct voices: the king, the priest and the prophet. The king speaks of the wisdom people have learned over the centuries of human existence. The priest speaks of the things that have been revealed to man by God. The prophet speaks for God when a society has drifted away from God's plan. Y'shua embodies all three roles and speaks with each of the three voices at different times. It is important to determine which voice He is using in each situation. Without that understanding one may misinterpret what He is saying. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. May 2026 In Scripture there are three distinct voices: the king, the priest and the prophet. The king speaks of the wisdom people have learned over the centuries of human existence. The priest speaks of the things that have been revealed to man by God. The prophet speaks for God when a society has drifted away from God's plan. Y'shua embodies all three roles and speaks with each of the three voices at different times. It is important to determine which voice He is using in each situation. Without that understanding one may misinterpret what He is saying. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2146/threevoices26.mp3 15:45 Tue, 05 May 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion James talks about pride in the context of wealth, slander and boasting. Those who live for their wealth will find no peace and that wealth finally desserts them. Those who slander others will find themselves shunned. Those who boast of their plans may find that God has other plans for them. Jon Behrens James, the brother of Y'shua, presents a vital balance between faith in God and the importance of action to that faith. James talks about pride in the context of wealth, slander and boasting. Those who live for their wealth will find no peace and that wealth finally desserts them. Those who slander others will find themselves shunned. Those who boast of their plans may find that God has other plans for them. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2147/james26_4.mp3 35:21 Thu, 07 May 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Elijah, distressed by the behavior of Israel, turns off the rain. The resulting drought sets up the remainder of his ministry. Jon Behrens Elijah and Elisha are major figures in the TANAK. Together they performed a number of miracles that prefigured those done by Y'shua. Their actions and prophecies figure into the End Times. Jezebel, having co-opted her husband, the king, imported prophets of her own god, Baal. Elijah set up a confrontation with those prophets at Mount Carmel. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1422/elijah_2.mp3 30:05 Sun, 10 May 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Every six years God promises a bumper crop so Israel will let the land have a sabbath in the seventh year. Obeying this command requires no faith - the farmer can see the sixth year bounty. If he plants on the seventh year, he is taking more than God is offering. Such ill-gotten wealth creates all sorts of societal problems. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. May 2026 Every six years God promises a bumper crop so Israel will let the land have a sabbath in the seventh year. Obeying this command requires no faith - the farmer can see the sixth year bounty. If he plants on the seventh year, he is taking more than God is offering. Such ill-gotten wealth creates all sorts of societal problems. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2148/yovel26.mp3 21:44 Tue, 12 May 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion During the time before His crucifixion, Y'shua spent considerable effort contending with the Pharisees about their interpretation of God's law as given by Moses. In these encounters, there are several key phrases: "You have heard it said..." and "It is written..." What to these phrases signify and what does that mean to us today? Jon Behrens James will finish next week. During the time before His crucifixion, Y'shua spent considerable effort contending with the Pharisees about their interpretation of God's law as given by Moses. In these encounters, there are several key phrases: "You have heard it said..." and "It is written..." What to these phrases signify and what does that mean to us today? https://crimsonthread.com/media/1756/law22.mp3 34:47 Thu, 14 May 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Idol worship eventually leads to murder and Jezebel is not above murder to obtain what she wants. Elijah passes on his mantle to Elisha. Jon Behrens Elijah and Elisha are major figures in the TANAK. Together they performed a number of miracles that prefigured those done by Y'shua. Their actions and prophecies figure into the End Times. Idol worship eventually leads to murder and Jezebel is not above murder to obtain what she wants. Elijah passes on his mantle to Elisha. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1423/elijah_3.mp3 37:11 Sun, 17 May 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion In the world as we know it, there are great spiritual forces contending for human worship and dominance. In this, the world is a battleground. On side is YHVH, the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. On the other side is everything else. While the forces on the other side may offer many temptations, their goal is ultimately our destruction. God, on the other hand, loves us and wants us to live and flourish. Further, the census in the wilderness, is taken by name. He cares for each of us as individuals known to Him by name. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. May 2026 In the world as we know it, there are great spiritual forces contending for human worship and dominance. In this, the world is a battleground. On side is YHVH, the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. On the other side is everything else. While the forces on the other side may offer many temptations, their goal is ultimately our destruction. God, on the other hand, loves us and wants us to live and flourish. Further, the census in the wilderness, is taken by name. He cares for each of us as individuals known to Him by name. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2149/bamidbar26.mp3 17:26 Tue, 19 May 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Writing to Hebrews, James does not present a balanced approach to wealth. Rather he simply condemns its unjust accumulation and use. Since God uses wealth to motivate us, Proverbs presents both sides of wealth. James' advice on healing mirrors that of the Great Commission. Jon Behrens James, the brother of Y'shua, presents a vital balance between faith in God and the importance of action to that faith. Writing to Hebrews, James does not present a balanced approach to wealth. Rather he simply condemns its unjust accumulation and use. Since God uses wealth to motivate us, Proverbs presents both sides of wealth. James' advice on healing mirrors that of the Great Commission. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2150/james26_5.mp3 25:34 Thu, 21 May 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Elisha succeeds Elijah asking for a double portion of Elijah's anointing. He raises the Shunamite's son from death. Jon Behrens Elijah and Elisha are major figures in the TANAK. Together they performed a number of miracles that prefigured those done by Y'shua. Their actions and prophecies figure into the End Times. Elisha succeeds Elijah asking for a double portion of Elijah's anointing. He raises the Shunamite's son from death. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1424/elisha_1.mp3 28:02 Sun, 24 May 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion When God met with Israel at Mt Sinai. He established a relationship of a type that had never existed before. He asked for their consent to the relationship - other 'gods' and rulers had simply taken power. He spoke to everyone, not just the elite - before only the adept were initiated into the mysteries of their gods. He told them all what He expected, not just a small occult group. This relationship became the model for the American Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. May 2026 When God met with Israel at Mt Sinai. He established a relationship of a type that had never existed before. He asked for their consent to the relationship - other 'gods' and rulers had simply taken power. He spoke to everyone, not just the elite - before only the adept were initiated into the mysteries of their gods. He told them all what He expected, not just a small occult group. This relationship became the model for the American Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2151/shavuot26.mp3 22:48 Tue, 26 May 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion The calling of Jeremiah. The first of his visions depicts God being faithful to His own word and the second, a northward facing boiling pot, prefigures the Babylonian invasion that would sweep Judah and Jerusalem away into exile. Jon Behrens Jeremiah, one of the major prophets, served between 627 and 586 BCE. One of his constant themes was that wishful thinking without righteous behavior would lead the nation into destruction. The calling of Jeremiah. The first of his visions depicts God being faithful to His own word and the second, a northward facing boiling pot, prefigures the Babylonian invasion that would sweep Judah and Jerusalem away into exile. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1785/jer22_1-2.mp3 46:36 Thu, 28 May 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion As a prophet, Elisha wields the power of God with a confidence and accuracy that seems more like sight than faith. He cures Naaman the Syrian of leprosy in so casual a manner that Naaman does not initially have any faith that the cure will work. Jon Behrens Elijah and Elisha are major figures in the TANAK. Together they performed a number of miracles that prefigured those done by Y'shua. Their actions and prophecies figure into the End Times. As a prophet, Elisha wields the power of God with a confidence and accuracy that seems more like sight than faith. He cures Naaman the Syrian of leprosy in so casual a manner that Naaman does not initially have any faith that the cure will work. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1425/elisha_2.mp3 28:05 Sun, 31 May 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion In Luke 8 Y'shua casts a legion of demons into a heard of pigs. Why did He not cast them into the abyss? What does that mean for us as we navigate a world where there are still demon about? What is it about our current culture that is so demon friendly? Clearly, dealing with demons was a big part of Y'shua's ministry and when He sent his disciples out, he gave them authority over demons. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. May 2026 In Luke 8 Y'shua casts a legion of demons into a heard of pigs. Why did He not cast them into the abyss? What does that mean for us as we navigate a world where there are still demon about? What is it about our current culture that is so demon friendly? Clearly, dealing with demons was a big part of Y'shua's ministry and when He sent his disciples out, he gave them authority over demons. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2152/demons26.mp3 18:46 Tue, 02 Jun 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Here God talks of the spiritual adultery of Israel and declares that her sister Judah is worse. At the time of the prophecy Israel had been in exile for over a century and Judah had not yet been exiled to Babylon. Even though God declares all of the reasons for His sorrow, He also promises a return and a reunification of the two houses. Jon Behrens Jeremiah, one of the major prophets, served between 627 and 586 BCE. One of his constant themes was that wishful thinking without righteous behavior would lead the nation into destruction. THere God talks of the spiritual adultery of Israel and declares that her sister Judah is worse. At the time of the prophecy Israel had been in exile for over a century and Judah had not yet been exiled to Babylon. Even though God declares all of the reasons for His sorrow, He also promises a return and a reunification of the two houses. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1787/jer22_3-4.mp3 35:15 Thu, 04 Jun 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Being a prophet of God was tough duty. Very often powerful people did not appreciate what you had to say and would have you to be slapped around or worse. The Syrian siege of Samaria. Jon Behrens Elijah and Elisha are major figures in the TANAK. Together they performed a number of miracles that prefigured those done by Y'shua. Their actions and prophecies figure into the End Times. Being a prophet of God was tough duty. Very often powerful people did not appreciate what you had to say and would have you to be slapped around or worse. The Syrian siege of Samaria. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1426/elisha_3.mp3 32:23 Sun, 07 Jun 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion Numbers 11 is a watershed for Israel. When they complained about the manna and said it was better for them in Egypt, they began the slide that would result in a whole generation perishing in the Wilderness. Bread, first mentioned in Genesis 3 is a metaphor for the thing that people eat who are going to die eventually. Bread from heaven then is a metaphor that something better is coming. Y'shua explains this in John 6. Jon Behrens Sermon given at Restoration Messianic Fellowship. June 2026 Numbers 11 is a watershed for Israel. When they complained about the manna and said it was better for them in Egypt, they began the slide that would result in a whole generation perishing in the Wilderness. Bread, first mentioned in Genesis 3 is a metaphor for the thing that people eat who are going to die eventually. Bread from heaven then is a metaphor that something better is coming. Y'shua explains this in John 6. https://crimsonthread.com/media/2153/bread26.mp3 18:48 Tue, 09 Jun 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion God sends Jeremiah to Jerusalem looking for even one who does justice and seeks truth. None is to be found either among the poor or the great. As Y'shua says, the only way to the Father is through Himself who is the Way the Truth and the Life. Since Jerusalem has abandoned the truth and gone after worthless idols, God's words will be to them a consuming fire. Jon Behrens Jeremiah, one of the major prophets, served between 627 and 586 BCE. One of his constant themes was that wishful thinking without righteous behavior would lead the nation into destruction. God sends Jeremiah to Jerusalem looking for even one who does justice and seeks truth. None is to be found either among the poor or the great. As Y'shua says, the only way to the Father is through Himself who is the Way the Truth and the Life. Since Jerusalem has abandoned the truth and gone after worthless idols, God's words will be to them a consuming fire. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1789/jer22_4-6.mp3 41:07 Thu, 04 Jun 2026 02:00:00 GMT Spirituality & Religion During his time in the cave at Mount Sinai, God gave Elijah a task to perform. It is only toward the end of his ministry that Elisha actually completes it. Jon Behrens Elijah and Elisha are major figures in the TANAK. Together they performed a number of miracles that prefigured those done by Y'shua. Their actions and prophecies figure into the End Times. During his time in the cave at Mount Sinai, God gave Elijah a task to perform. It is only toward the end of his ministry that Elisha actually completes it. https://crimsonthread.com/media/1427/elisha_4.mp3 26:06