This teaching by Matthew Vander Els at Founded in Truth Fellowship examines the dynamics between husbands and wives. Contrary to the modern assumption that women in ancient Near Eastern cultures, including those depicted in the Bible, were oppressed and lacked rights, the speaker suggests that women held a different but equally important role. Vander Els stresses that, biblically, a husband should see his wife as his most prized possession, similar to how a father views his daughter in ancient cultures.

Just as Isaac prayed for Rebecca's fertility, husbands should intercede for their wives, recognizing their needs and petitioning God on their behalf. Vander Els underscores this responsibility by mentioning a verse he considers "convicting": "And Isaac prayed to the Lord for his wife because she was barren, and the Lord granted his prayer, and Rebekah his wife conceived".

When a woman marries, her husband assumes a responsibility akin to a father's. This transition, often symbolized by the giving away of the bride in wedding ceremonies, is a contract of care and provision.

Drawing on scriptural examples like Psalms 128, Vander Els emphasizes that a wife's well-being and joy are directly linked to her husband's reverence for God. This isn't to say women can't be spiritually strong on their own, but it highlights a husband's primary duty to lead his family with righteousness, setting a worthy example for his wife and children.

Vander Els argues that modern interpretations of wifely submission, particularly in Colossians 3:18, often miss the nuance of the original Greek word. Instead of a military-style subservience, he suggests it implies a voluntary and collaborative approach where the wife actively shares the burdens and responsibilities of the household as her husband's helpmate.

Vander Els seeks to dismantle the notion of women as mere possessions in a marriage. He points to the Hebrew word for "helpmate," arguing that it denotes an equal and powerful counterpart who supports and defends her husband, particularly in times of vulnerability. He uses the analogy of a soldier needing backup to illustrate the strength and protectiveness this term implies.

• Regularly pray for your wives, seeking God's blessings upon their lives and recognizing your responsibility to support them spiritually.
• Treat your wives with honor and respect, understanding that you are entrusted with their well-being. Remember the value placed upon a daughter in ancient cultures and extend that same esteem to your wife.
• Strive to lead your families in righteousness, setting a godly example that your wife and children can willingly follow.
• Embrace the true meaning of "helpmate" by recognizing and appreciating your wife's strength, support, and partnership in marriage.

• Support your husbands and assist them in fulfilling their responsibilities as spiritual leaders in the home.
• Pray for your husbands and your families, seeking God's guidance and blessing on your household.

• Genesis 25:21: "And Isaac prayed to the Lord for his wife because she was barren, and the Lord granted his prayer, and Rebekah his wife conceived".
• Psalms 128
• Colossians 3:18
• 2 Corinthians 5:21
• Proverbs 31
• Hebrews 11:7

Note: This summary reflects the perspective presented by the speaker in the provided source. Other interpretations of scripture and historical contexts regarding the role of women in ancient Near Eastern cultures may exist.

Founded in Truth Fellowship is a Messianic Fellowship in Rock Hill, SC that provides Biblical teachings, fellowship, and resources for Biblical studies. Founded in Truth Fellowship is able to spread the gospel and the word of Yeshua because of supporters like you. If Founded in Truth has been a blessing to you or your family, we ask that you would give so that the same messages can bless others. To give to Founded in Truth Fellowship, click this link here.

Founded in Truth Fellowship 1689 Springsteen Rd, Rock Hill, SC 29730 (803) 627-8623 Founded in Truth Fellowship Website

This Bible teaching from Founded In Truth Fellowship, led by Matthew van der Els, explores the complexities and "dark side" of Psalm 119. While often seen as a celebration of God's law (Torah), the Psalm also reveals a deep struggle with suffering and a longing for God's promised blessings. The teaching emphasizes that the true revelation of God is not found in the written word alone, but in the person of Jesus Christ, who embodies and fulfills the Torah.

• Psalm 119 is unique in its structure and content, lacking a clear narrative or resolution. It's essentially a "circular rant" where the author repeatedly praises God's Torah, cries out in distress, and reaffirms his commitment to God's teachings.
• The Psalm expresses raw emotions of anxiety, frustration, and even anger towards God. The author feels he is faithfully following God's law but is not experiencing the promised blessings. Instead, he faces suffering, persecution, and a sense of abandonment.
• The teaching highlights the danger of focusing on external obedience to rules without pursuing a genuine relationship with God. It warns against making the Bible an idol and relying on it for salvation instead of seeking God himself.
• The teaching emphasizes that Jesus Christ is the ultimate revelation of God and the fulfillment of the Torah. The entire Old Testament points to him, and he is the source of true joy and salvation.

The Psalm gives permission to honestly express feelings of frustration, doubt, and even anger towards God. It's okay to wrestle with these emotions in prayer.

Focus on developing a personal connection with God rather than simply adhering to a list of rules. True obedience flows from a loving relationship.

Recognize that Jesus is the ultimate source of hope and joy, even in the midst of suffering. He is the fulfillment of God's promises and the one who brings true peace.

While the Bible is God's inspired word, it should not be worshipped or treated as an end in itself. It points to Jesus, who is the living Word of God.

• Psalm 119: The entire Psalm is referenced throughout the teaching, with specific verses highlighted to illustrate the author's emotional state and struggle.
• John 1:1-4: "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind."
• Luke 24:44-47: "He said to them, 'This is what I told you while I was still with you: Everything must be fulfilled that is written about me in the Law of Moses, the Prophets and the Psalms.' Then he opened their minds so they could understand the Scriptures. He told them, 'This is what is written: The Messiah will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, and repentance for the forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.'"
• John 5:39-40: "You study the Scriptures diligently because you think that in them you have eternal life. These are the very Scriptures that testify about me, yet you refuse to come to me to have life."
• Isaiah 2:3: "Many peoples will come and say, 'Come, let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, to the temple of the God of Jacob. He will teach us his ways, so that we may walk in his paths.' The law will go out from Zion, the word of the Lord from Jerusalem."
• Commentaries: John Calvin and C.S. Lewis's differing views on Psalm 119 are mentioned.
• Scholarly Works: N.T. Wright's interpretation of John 1:1 and Pete Enns's understanding of the Old Testament's purpose are cited.

Founded in Truth Fellowship is a Messianic Fellowship in Rock Hill, SC that provides Biblical teachings, fellowship, and resources for Biblical studies. Founded in Truth Fellowship is able to spread the gospel and the word of Yeshua because of supporters like you. If Founded in Truth has been a blessing to you or your family, we ask that you would give so that the same messages can bless others. To give to Founded in Truth Fellowship, click this link https://foundedintruth.com/give.

Founded in Truth Fellowship 1689 Springsteen Rd, Rock Hill, SC 29730 (803) 627-8623 https://foundedintruth.com

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