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Weekly Parashah |
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| Torah: Gen. 32:4–36:43 | Haftara: Oba. 1:1–21 | Brith Chadashah: Jn. 1:19–2:12 Heb. 11:11-20 Mt. 26:36-46 |
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Scripture: |
Genesis 32:4–36:43
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Torah |
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Jacob Prepares to Meet Esau4 Then Jacob sent messengers before him to his brother Esau, to the land of Seir, the field of Edom. 5 He also commanded them saying, “This is what you should say to my lord, to Esau: ‘This is what your servant Jacob said: I’ve been staying with Laban, and have lingered until now. 6 Now I’ve come to possess oxen and donkeys, flocks, male servants and female servants. I sent word to tell my lord, in order to find favor in your eyes.’” https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Gen.+32%3A4%E2%80%9336%3A43&version=TLV |
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Scripture: |
Obadaiah 1:1–21
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Haftarah |
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Edom’s Arrogance and Ruin1 The vision of Obadiah. Thus says Adonai Elohim concerning Edom:We have heard a report from Adonai— and an envoy has been sent among the nations: “Arise and let us rise up against her in battle.” 2 Behold, I will make you least among the nations, you will be greatly despised. 3 The arrogance of your heart has deceived you— living in the clefts of the rock— his dwelling place is lofty, saying in his heart: ‘Who shall bring me down to the earth?’ 4 Even if you soar like the eagle, and even if you set your nest among the stars, from there I will bring you down.’” declares Adonai. 5 “If thieves came to you, if robbers by night— how ruined you would be!— would they keep stealing after they had enough? If grape-gatherers came to you, would they not leave some gleaning? 6 How Esau will be ransacked, and how his hidden treasures searched out! 7 All your allies will force you to the border. The men that are at peace with you will deceive you and overpower you. Those who eat your bread will set a trap under you. (He has no discernment.) 8 In that day,”—declares Adonai— “will I not destroy the wise men from Edom and understanding from the hill country of Esau? 9 Then your mighty men, O Teman, will be shattered —so everyone will be cut off from the hill country of Esau by slaughter.10 “Because of your violence to your brother Jacob, shame will cover you, and you will be cut off forever .https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Oba.+1%3A1%E2%80%9321&version=TLV |
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Scripture: |
John 1:19–2:12
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Brit Chadashah |
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John’s Witness to Israel’s Leaders19 This is John’s testimony, when the Judean leaders sent kohanim and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, “Who are you?”20 He openly admitted and did not deny; he admitted, “I am not the Messiah.”21 “What then? Are you Elijah?” they asked him.“I am not,” said John.“Are you the Prophet?”“No,” he answered.22 So they said to him, “Who are you? Give us an answer for those who sent us. What do you say about yourself?”23 He said, “I am ‘the voice of one crying in the wilderness, “Make straight the way of Adonai,”’[a] as the prophet Isaiah said.”24 Now those sent were from the Pharisees. 25 They asked him, “If you’re not the Messiah, Elijah, or the Prophet, why then are you immersing?” 26 “I immerse in water,” John answered. “Among you stands One you do not know, 27 coming after me, whose sandals I’m not worthy to untie.” 28 These things happened in Bethany beyond the Jordan, where John was immersing. Behold, the Lamb of God29 The next day, John sees Yeshua coming to him and says, “Behold, the Lamb[b] of God who takes away the sin of the world! https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Jn.+1%3A19%E2%80%932%3A12&version=TLV Hebrews 11 : 11 – 2011 By faith even Sarah herself received ability to conceive[a] when she was barren and past the age, since she considered the One who had made the promise to be faithful. 12 So from one—and him as good as dead—were fathered offspring as numerous as the stars of heaven, and as uncountable as the sand on the seashore.[b] https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Heb.+11%3A11-20&version=TLV Matthew 26 : 36 – 46“Your Will Be Done”36 Then Yeshua comes with them to a place called Gethsemane, and He tells the disciples, “Sit here, while I go over there and pray.” 37 And He took along Peter and Zebedee’s two sons, and He began to be sorrowful and troubled. 38 Then He tells them, “My soul is deeply grieved, even to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with Me.” 39 Going a little farther, He fell face down and prayed, saying, “My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me! Yet not as I will, but as You will.” 40 Then He comes to the disciples and finds them sleeping; and He tells Peter, “So couldn’t you keep watch with Me for one hour? 41 Keep watching and praying, so that you won’t enter into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” 42 Again for a second time He went away and prayed, saying, “My Father, if this cannot pass away unless I drink it, let Your will be done.” 43 And again He came and found them sleeping, for their eyes were heavy. 44 So He left them again and prayed a third time, saying the same words once more. 45 Then He comes to the disciples and says to them, “Still sleeping? Taking your rest? Look, the hour is at hand, and the Son of Man is being delivered into the hands of sinners. 46 Get up, let’s go! Look, My betrayer is near.” https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Mt.+26%3A36-46&version=TLV |
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Parashah in 60 seconds |
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00 The reason to write my Theology
The Importance of Theological Underpinning in Pastoral Teachings: A Comprehensive Perspective
Introduction
Within Article Zero of the series on theology, I would like to introduce the reason for this writing.
Theology, the study of the divine and religious beliefs, practices, and experiences, is the backbone of any religious teaching. For a pastor, the theological ground from which he or she teaches is not just a matter of personal belief but a guiding principle that shapes the congregation's spiritual life. This article explores why it is essential for a pastor to provide this theological underpinning for the congregation and the importance of prayer, preparation, and making it publicly available.
Part I: The Significance of Theological Underpinning
1. Consistency and Clarity in Teaching
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Ensures teachings are consistent with core beliefs.
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Provides a clear framework for interpretation and application.
2. Personal Integrity and Authenticity
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Fosters integrity and authenticity.
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Builds trust in spiritual guidance.
3. Cultural and Contextual Relevance
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Ensures guidance is relevant and meaningful.
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Recognizes unique needs and challenges.
4. Fostering Spiritual Growth
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Provides a roadmap for spiritual development.
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Encourages deeper exploration and engagement.
5. Unity and Community Building
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Promotes unity within the congregation.
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Avoids divisions and conflicts.
Part II: The Imperative of Prayer, Preparation, and Public Availability
Prayer: Seeking Divine Guidance
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Aligns theological beliefs with God's will.
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Opens the heart and mind to divine revelation.
Preparation: Crafting a Thoughtful Framework
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Ensures a well-thought-out and comprehensive understanding.
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Demonstrates responsibility and accountability.
Public Availability: Transparency and Accessibility
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Fosters transparency and builds trust.
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Makes information accessible to all.
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Serves as an educational resource.
Conclusion
The theological ground from which a pastor teaches is a vital aspect of spiritual leadership. It provides consistency, fosters integrity, ensures relevance, promotes spiritual growth, and builds community. Defining and sharing this theological underpinning is a sacred task that requires prayer, preparation, and a commitment to public availability.
In a world where individual perspectives and interpretations can vary widely, and spiritual guidance is often sought and scrutinized, these principles serve as a compass, guiding both the pastor and the congregation toward a shared understanding of their faith. It is a reflection of the pastor's commitment to the spiritual well-being of the community he or she serves, and a testament to the profound responsibility that comes with the calling.
By understanding and articulating this theological foundation, a pastor can lead with clarity, authenticity, and relevance, nurturing a faith community that is united, engaged, and growing in their spiritual journey. It underscores the multifaceted role that theological underpinning plays in pastoral teachings, reflecting the complexity and significance of the pastor's role in guiding and nurturing the faith community.
