Parasha 40 : A House Reunited: The Road to Restoration

 

A House Reunited: The Road to Restoration

-- T O R A H   P O R T I O N --

Introduction:

When was the last time you had a family reunion? What happened then, and how did it feel?

Last week, Pharaoh declared Joseph to rule over his house and the land of Egypt. He gave Joseph his signet ring, garments of fine linen, and a gold chain around his neck. Pharaoh also changed Joseph’s name to Zaphnath-Paaneah, and he gave him Asenath, the daughter of a priest of On, as a wife.

Joseph started to gather food for the seven years, and the season of plenty ended, and the seven years of famine began. This famine reached the land of Canaan, and when Jacob heard that there was grain in Egypt, he told his boys to buy some so they might live. When they reached Egypt, Joseph saw them, but he reacted as a stranger.

In our Torah portion this Shabbat, Joseph continues acting like a stranger to his brothers. He challenged them to prove to him that they’re honest men by two things: First, let one of their brothers be left. Second, they need to bring their youngest brother (Benjamin). These will verify their words, and they will not die. Now, as the sons of Jacob reunite, something happened:

There was REPENTANCE (vv. 21–22) — In verse 18, Joseph said: “Do this and live, for I fear God.” Ever since, God was with Joseph. And because of that, I believe God was working on the day of Joseph's reunion with his brothers, and part of this is their transformation. Joseph, through the help of God, is using a test to bring about a change in his brothers before he finally reveals himself to them. Notice the statement of Joseph’s brothers in verse 21. They didn’t say, “We are guilty,” but rather, “We are truly guilty.” Here, we can see that they admit their sin concerning Joseph. Reuben, the eldest son of Jacob, reminded his brothers that they refused to listen when they planned to kill Joseph. Surprisingly, Joseph wept. Maybe he saw what he wanted to see from his brothers. Guilt can lead as the first step in repentance. Apostle Paul says in 2 Corinthians 7:10, “For godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation, not to be regretted; but the sorrow of the world produces death.”

There was the start of RESTORATION (vv. 25–38) — Joseph commands his officials to fill the sacks of his brothers with grain and restore their money, as well as a provision for their journey back to Canaan. Here, not only the money has been restored, but the hearts of Joseph’s brothers as well. In verse 28b, they said, “What is this that God has done to us?” This time, Joseph’s brothers started to tell the whole truth to their father Jacob, compared to the time that they lied about the whereabouts of Joseph. In Psalm 23:3, it says, “He restores my soul; He leads me in the path of righteousness for His name’s sake.” That is what Adonai YHVH wants—to pull us back toward Him.

There was a REPRESENTATION for Benjamin’s sake (vv. 37–43:10) — First, Reuben represents himself to Jacob, that in case he failed to bring Benjamin back to him, Jacob could kill his two sons. But surely, Jacob wouldn’t do that since they’re his grandchildren. Second, Judah represents himself. He told his father Jacob that he would bear the blame forever in case he failed to bring Benjamin back. Judah here is a foreshadowing of Messiah Yeshua. He sacrificed himself for the surety of his brother Benjamin. Same as Yeshua from the tribe of Judah—He sacrificed Himself for us, and He bears our transgressions from us (Psalm 103:12).

There was a RECITATION of prayer (43:14) — Notice the prayer of Jacob. He used “God Almighty,” a title that Adonai YHVH used when He made a covenant with Abraham, and part of it was to multiply his descendants exceedingly. The twelve sons of Jacob have a big part to fulfill it, so Jacob, although he was troubled, entrusted his sons to Adonai to control everything.

If we put these four things together, the result will be RECONCILIATION and CELEBRATION, and that’s the reason why, in verse 16, when Joseph saw his brother Benjamin, he told the steward of his house to slaughter an animal, for they would have a family dinner.

Before there can be reunion, there must first be repentance. Restoration begins when truth is no longer buried.

Joseph’s brothers did not merely feel guilt—they confessed their guilt and acknowledged God’s justice. It wasn’t enough to survive the famine; they had to confront their past.

Is God is calling you to revisit past actions, not to condemn you—but to transform you? Is there someone you need to be reconciled with before true restoration can begin?

-- H A F T A R A H P O R T I O N --

In our Haftarah portion, Prophet Isaiah used three key words for the people of Israel and gave them an assurance of freedom from captivity. First, the word “listen” (vv. 1–8). Isaiah mentioned Abraham and Sarah as an example of how Adonai YHVH blessed and increased his descendants. Here, He will bless Israel with the following:

• Comfort (v. 3)

• Joy and gladness (v. 3)

• Justice and salvation (vv. 4–8)

The second word is “awake” (v. 9–52:10). Israel should wake up, for Adonai YHVH will deliver them from captivity. Isaiah used the time of the Exodus, where Adonai delivered Israel from the hands of the Egyptians, so they need to trust Him once again. For He is their Maker, Who stretched out the heavens and laid the foundations of the earth.

The third word is “depart” (v. 11). Since Adonai YHVH gave His people an assurance and deliverance from captivity, now it’s time for them to depart from the lands of their expulsion and return to their land.

When God says, ‘Awake,’ He’s not just stirring us from sleep—He’s summoning us to live in our true identity as His people.

Through Isaiah, Adonai calls His people to listen, wake up, and depart from their exile. He reminds them of who they are and Whose they are. Their deliverance is not just from a place—it’s to a purpose.

Are you spiritually awake, or has the weariness of exile dulled your hearing? What voices are you listening to more than Adonai's call to return and trust?

-- APOSTOLIC P O R T I O N --

In the Apostolic portion, one of the seven angels invited John to show him the bride of Messiah Yeshua—none other than the twelve tribes of Israel. Jeremiah 31:33b says that Adonai YHVH was a husband to them. Sadly, Israel became unfaithful because of idolatry, and that’s the reason why He likened them to a harlot under every green tree (Jer. 3:6). Also, in Jeremiah 3:14–15 it says, “Return, O backsliding children,” says Adonai. “For I am MARRIED to you. I will take you, one from a city and two from a family, and I will bring you to Zion. And I will give you shepherds according to My heart, who will feed you with knowledge and understanding.”

In Romans 7:2, Shaul said, “For a married woman is bound by law to her husband while he lives, but if her husband dies, she is released from the law of marriage.” Only the death of Yeshua could revoke His marriage with Israel, but when He comes, He will marry again the twelve tribes of Israel.

John also saw in his vision the holy Jerusalem adorned with 12 precious stones. These stones can be found in the breastplate of the High Priest, which were placed on his chest. Since Yeshua is the Great High Priest, Israel is still in His heart (chest part).

The New Jerusalem is not just a city—it is the promise made visible, the Bride made ready, and the covenant made eternal.

The vision of New Jerusalem is not a new people replacing Israel—it is restored Israel, joined with the grafted-in nations, beautified for her eternal King. The High Priest still holds her on His chest.

Do you long for that final reunion with Messiah, or have temporary treasures dulled your desire for the eternal city? Are you preparing yourself as part of the Bride?

The connection of our parasha is about Adonai’s redemptive plan to restore relationship, identity, and covenant with His people.

In the Torah portion, the sons of Jacob take the first steps toward reconciliation, as Joseph begins to test and prepare their hearts for reunion and restoration.

In the Haftarah portion, Adonai YHVH calls His people to listen, awaken, and depart from their exile, promising comfort, justice, and salvation as He gathers them back to Himself.

In the Apostolic portion, Yeshua reveals the ultimate fulfillment of that plan, as He prepares to be united with His Bride—the twelve tribes of Israel and the grafted-in believers—dwelling with them forever in the New Jerusalem.

"Joseph, the “savior of the world,” is hidden to his own brothers, but will, in the end, fully disclose Himself, and will bring them all to be with him where their lives will be preserved from the famine. In this way, the Joseph narrative is an interesting foreshadow of the whole plan of redemption, through which both the descendants of Jacob as well as those from the nations are gathered together into the one redeemed people of God." - Tim Hegg

Back to my introduction… Just like Joseph, it’s so nice to see and be with loved ones you haven’t seen in a long time. Soon, in Adonai YHVH’s perfect time, we grafted-in Gentiles will be with genuine Israel, our brothers in Messiah Yeshua, because this future event is part of His beautiful plan.

Ephesians 2:11–13

“Therefore remember that you, once Gentiles in the flesh who are called Uncircumcision by what is called the Circumcision made in the flesh by hands— that at that time you were without Yeshua, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world. But now in Messiah Yeshua, you who once were far off have been brought near by His blood.”

God restores what was broken—whether a family, a nation, or a covenant. From Joseph’s household to Zion’s captives to the Bride of Revelation, the road to restoration is paved by repentance, led by mercy, and fulfilled in glory through Messiah Yeshua.

Shabbat Shalom,

Topher

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-- S O U R C E S --

alittleperspective.com

superiorword.org

gracefresno.com

harvestpca.org

The MacArthur Study Bible

oncedelivered.net

torahresource.com

Parasha 39: The Way Up Is Down: When Adonai Lifts the Lowly

 

The Way Up Is Down: When Adonai Lifts the Lowly

-- T O R A H   P O R T I O N --

Introduction:

Have you noticed how blessings are often preceded by seasons of suffering? How do you respond in those moments of trial?

Last week, Pharaoh had two dreams, but there was no one who could interpret them for him. Finally, the cupbearer remembered Joseph, and he told Pharaoh how Joseph had interpreted his dream and that it came to pass just as he said. So Pharaoh called Joseph from the dungeon; he shaved, changed his clothes, and met Pharaoh.

Pharaoh began to share his dreams, and Joseph immediately told Pharaoh that his two dreams were one. There would be seven years of great plenty, but after that, seven years of famine would follow. Joseph gave Pharaoh instructions on how to deal with the famine, and he listened.

Our Torah portion deals with how Joseph experienced blessings after his sufferings:

Pharaoh appointed Joseph to rule over all the land of Egypt (vv. 39–41) – Then Pharaoh said to Joseph, “Since God has made all this known to you, there is no one so discerning and wise as you. You shall be in charge of my palace, and all my people are to submit to your orders. Only with respect to the throne will I be greater than you.” When Joseph suggested to Pharaoh to select a discerning and wise man to rule over the land, Pharaoh did not think twice. To him, only Joseph was qualified for the mission of working out the good plan. After two years of being forgotten by the cupbearer, we see here that from the dungeon, Joseph was now on the throne. It's worth the wait, in other words—just like when Abraham and Jacob waited to have a son. Joseph was not seeking any higher position. In fact, he merely suggested something to Pharaoh, but God exalted him in perfect time. His coat of many colors had now been replaced by a royal garment. Pharaoh also gave him a signet ring, a gold chain around his neck, and a new name—a total transformation and new beginning for the favorite son of Jacob.

Joseph had a family (vv. 50–52) – And to Joseph were born two sons before the years of famine came, whom Asenath, the daughter of Poti-Pherah, priest of On, bore to him. Joseph called the name of the firstborn Manasseh: “For God has made me forget all my toil and all my father’s house.” And the name of the second he called Ephraim: “For God has caused me to be fruitful in the land of my affliction.”

Since Joseph had been away from his immediate family, this time Pharaoh gave him Asenath, the daughter of Poti-Pherah, priest of On, to be his wife, and they had two sons. Joseph called the firstborn Manasseh, meaning “Forget,” and the second he called Ephraim, which means “Fruitful.” This family of Joseph was very controversial because of the origin of Asenath. Some say that she was an ethnic Egyptian but must have converted to marry Joseph. Others say that she was the daughter of Dinah and was left outside Egypt’s wall and found and raised by Potiphar. But I believe the reason why Adonai YHVH allowed Joseph to have a family inside Egypt is because He had a wonderful plan for the Gentiles. We have to remember that even Boaz married Ruth the Moabite, and Ruth was mentioned in the genealogy of Yeshua (Matthew 1:1–17).

Joseph became an instrument for his family to survive the famine (42:1–17) –

When Jacob learned that there was grain in Egypt, he said to his sons, “Why do you just keep looking at each other?” He continued, “I have heard that there is grain in Egypt. Go down there and buy some for us so that we may live and not die.” Then ten of Joseph’s brothers went down to buy grain from Egypt. But Jacob did not send Benjamin, Joseph’s brother, with the others, because he was afraid that harm might come to him. So Israel’s sons were among those who went to buy grain, for there was famine in the land of Canaan also. Now Joseph was the governor of the land, the person who sold grain to all its people. So when Joseph’s brothers arrived, they bowed down to him with their faces to the ground.

The famine reached Canaan, and Jacob, as a father, heard that there was grain in Egypt. He told his sons to go there and buy food so they may live and not die. The good thing is Joseph was in Egypt, and he was second in command. Let's move forward to Genesis 47:7–8: “So God sent me here ahead of you. This was to make sure you have some descendants left on earth. And it was to keep you alive in an amazing way. So it was not you who sent me here, but God. God has made me the highest officer of the king of Egypt. I am in charge of his palace. I am the master of all the land of Egypt.”

He was governor over the land (v.6), and part of this blessing to Joseph was that his dream about the stars and moon bowing down to him came true when his brothers came.

We can learn two things from our Torah portion:

Our trials are God's tool to mold us – For a while, we face many trials, but these trials will mold us so we can see that our faith is genuine, as it can't grow without a challenge. The grapefruit needs to be crushed in order to get the best juice. And so are we—trials will squeeze us so the best of us will come out. Isaiah 48:10 says, “Behold, I have refined you, but not as silver; I have tested you in the furnace of affliction.” Instead of seeing trials as hindrances, we can choose to observe them as tools for strength and growth. In exploring the storms and trials of life, let’s remember that each trial is an avenue to deepen our faith and improve our patience. Soon we will realize that everything happens for a reason—to glorify God.

Truly, there is a blessing after the suffering – If we focus only on one corner of the pain of suffering in our lives, we will be anxious and weak. But if we look at the positive side of it, we will know that it is also a blessing. In fact, there is a saying that there's always a rainbow after the rain. Suffering is temporary. It’s just like how we sleep tonight, and tomorrow will be a new day. Our God Adonai YHVH is powerful and bigger than our sufferings. In His perfect time, our sufferings will turn into blessings—just like Joseph, from the dungeon to the throne. Psalm 30:6b says, “Sorrow may last for the night, but a shout of joy comes in the morning.”

Adonai does not forget those who wait in faith; from the lowest pit, He lifts up kings.

Have you been in a season of waiting, wondering if God sees your suffering? Like Joseph, don’t seek the throne—seek faithfulness. In time, Adonai exalts the humble. This week, ask: Am I being faithful even while waiting? Choose to trust Him while you're still in the "dungeon" season.

-- H A F T A R A H P O R T I O N --

 

Our Haftarah is about the reign of Jesse’s Offspring. In verse 1, the prophet Isaiah used the word "Rod" from Jesse, the father of David, and I believe this Rod is Messiah Yeshua. To support this, I want to use Isaiah 9:6–7: “For a child is born to us, a son is given to us. The government will rest on his shoulders. And he will be called: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. His government and its peace will never end. He will rule with fairness and justice from the throne of his ancestor David for all eternity. The passionate commitment of the LORD of Heaven’s Armies will make this happen!” In verse 2 of our Haftarah, it says that the Spirit of Adonai YHVH shall rest upon Him—wisdom, understanding, counsel, might, knowledge, and fear. That’s why in Luke 2:52, Yeshua increased in wisdom and stature and in favor with God and men. These characteristics qualify Yeshua to rule justly. Our Haftarah is a clear indication that Yeshua will come.

In verses 6–9, Yeshua's kingdom can be seen as peaceful. Isaiah used the reconciliation of animals that contradict each other to show us that shalom will prevail when Yeshua reigns during the Millennial Kingdom. For the earth shall be full of the knowledge of Him, as the waters cover the sea.

The Spirit of YHVH prepares the King, and the knowledge of Him prepares the world for peace.

As you wait for Messiah’s return and His reign of perfect peace, is His Spirit already ruling in your heart? Isaiah describes the traits of Messiah (wisdom, understanding, fear of YHVH)—traits we are called to grow in. Are these traits visible in your life today? Let His Spirit shape you now.

-- APOSTOLIC P O R T I O N --

In the Apostolic portion, the talmidim of Yeshua were arguing as to who would be the greatest among them. Then Yeshua gave them two things about true greatness. First, their faith should be like the faith of a child—being dependent and knowing how to trust. Second, they need to deny themselves. In verse 48, Yeshua said that whoever receives the child in His name receives Him.

Meaning, His talmidim should be willing to obey His teachings and be ready to suffer—even to die—for His sake. In short, true greatness is achieved by humility.

True greatness is found in the low place—where the humble serve, the proud stumble, and the King Himself stoops.

Greatness in the Kingdom is not about power or prestige, but about humility and serving others. Yeshua lifted the child to reveal the posture of greatness. Do you welcome the lowly, or do you compete for position? Try to serve someone who cannot repay you—do it in Yeshua’s name.

The connection of our parasha is about greatness. In the Torah, after the sufferings of Joseph, he became great and ruled in the land of Egypt. In the Haftarah, the Great Messiah Yeshua will reign from the rod of Jesse, the father of David. In the Apostolic portion, Yeshua told His talmidim that whoever is the least among them will be great.

Returning to my introduction… just like Joseph, we have trials and sufferings in life. But these things have a good purpose, and that is for us to learn how to trust God, wait for His perfect timing, and know that soon, He will lift us up and turn our sufferings into blessings.

Before Adonai crowns you with honor, He clothes you in humility.

Just as Joseph was lifted from the dungeon to the throne, and just as Yeshua will one day reign in righteousness and peace from Jerusalem, we too are being prepared for a greater calling. But before the exaltation comes the testing. Before the crown comes the crushing.

1 Peter 1:6–7

“In this you greatly rejoice, even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials, so that the proof of your faith—being more precious than gold, which is perishable—even though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Messiah Yeshua.”

Your trials are not meaningless. They are preparation for a purpose greater than yourself: to reflect Yeshua and participate in His kingdom work. Stay faithful. Our Master is coming very soon.

Shabbat Shalom,

Topher

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-- S O U R C E S --

thetorah.com

blogs.timeofisrael.com

jwa.org

heartbeatinternational.org

jtsa.edu

wikipedia.org

desiringgod.org

The MacArthur Study Bible

Parasha 38: Preparation for Tribulation

 

Preparation for Tribulation

-- T O R A H   P O R T I O N --

Introduction:

How do you prepare for the coming storm, famine, and other tribulation?

Last week, Joseph interpreted the dreams of the two officials of Pharaoh—the cupbearer and the baker. The fulfillment of their dreams came to pass after three days, during the birthday of Pharaoh. He lifted up the head of the cupbearer and the baker. Then Pharaoh restored the cupbearer to his position, and again he placed the cup in Pharaoh’s hand. In the case of the baker, he was hanged as Joseph had interpreted. But the cupbearer did not remember Joseph.

Our Torah portion starts with the dreams of Pharaoh. Verse 1 says, “At the end of two full years,” meaning Joseph was really forgotten. Was he forsaken? Absolutely not! Adonai YHVH had a great purpose, for He knows what’s best for Joseph. So after two years, Pharaoh dreamt as he was standing by the river. I believe this river was the Nile River, which was one of the gods of the Egyptians and the source of their life.

Also, part of Pharaoh’s dream was the cow. The cow goddess in Ancient Egypt was Hathor—a woman having the head of a cow. This goddess was linked to the Nile River as being the goddess of fertility. Since the two dreams of Pharaoh are one, and it’s all about the coming tribulation (famine), what can these two goddesses of Egypt do about it? Nothing! Even the magicians and wise men in the land couldn’t interpret.

So here comes Joseph, for he was remembered by the cupbearer, came out of the dungeon, shaved, changed his clothes, and approached Pharaoh with humility.

Then the chief cupbearer said to Pharaoh, “I remember my offenses today. When Pharaoh was angry with his servants and put me and the chief baker in custody in the house of the captain of the guard, we dreamed on the same night, he and I, each having a dream with its own interpretation. A young Hebrew was there with us, a servant of the captain of the guard. When we told him, he interpreted our dreams to us, giving an interpretation to each man according to his dream. And as he interpreted to us, so it came about. I was restored to my office, and the baker was hanged.”

Now Joseph told Pharaoh that only Adonai YHVH would give him an answer of peace. Pharaoh began sharing his dreams, and Joseph interpreted. The seven good cows and heads are both seven years, which represent seven years of great plenty, and the seven thin and ugly cows and the seven empty heads are seven years of famine.

In verse 32, it says that Pharaoh dreamed twice about it because it was established by Adonai, and He will bring it to pass. This time, Joseph advised Pharaoh on how to prepare for the coming tribulation:

He told Pharaoh to select a discerning and wise man and set him over the land of Egypt.

V.33 “Now therefore, let Pharaoh select a discerning and wise man, and set him over the land of Egypt.”

Here, we can see that Joseph is the best for this position for two reasons: First, Adonai YHVH was with Joseph, as He was the source of his wisdom and success. Second, he had experience being an overseer of Potiphar. That’s why in verses 38–39, Pharaoh acknowledged that there is no one as discerning and wise as Joseph. And Pharaoh said to his servants, “Can we find such a one as this, a man in whom is the Spirit of God?”

Then Pharaoh said to Joseph, “Inasmuch as God has shown you all this, there is no one as discerning and wise as you.” Pharaoh acknowledged the same thing that Potiphar acknowledged, the same thing that the warden approved—and that is that man whom God favored.

He told Pharaoh to appoint officers to collect the produce of the land of Egypt.

V.34–36 “Let Pharaoh do this, and let him appoint officers over the land, to collect one-fifth of the produce of the land of Egypt in the seven plentiful years. And let them gather all the food of those good years that are coming, and store up grain under the authority of Pharaoh, and let them keep food in the cities. Then that food shall be as a reserve for the land for the seven years of famine which shall be in the land of Egypt, that the land may not perish during the famine.”

Since Egypt would prosper for seven years, there would be a time to gather all the food in the land and reserve it for seven years.

What are the lessons that we could learn from our Torah portion?

Adonai YHVH is the only powerful God – I believe God allowed the famine in Egypt to show His amazing power, like what He did during the ten plagues. Even Pharaoh himself and the goddesses of Egypt couldn’t interpret dreams and couldn’t do anything about the coming famine in the land. In fact, the huge message of the Scripture is that God is powerful.

Jeremiah 32:17 says: “‘Ah, Sovereign Lord, you have made the heavens and the earth by your great power and outstretched arm. Nothing is too hard for you.”

Psalm 147:4–5 says: “Adonai determines the number of the stars; He gives to all of them their names. Great is our Lord, and abundant in power; His understanding is beyond measure.”

Adonai YHVH is the source of wisdom – Joseph always mentions Adonai, even to the point of interpreting a dream, because it’s clear to him that only Adonai should receive all the credit. Despite having difficulties in life, Joseph still points to God. For us to have wisdom like Joseph, we should follow His Torah (Instructions).

Psalm 19:7: “The Torah of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul; The testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple.”

Another thing is that for us to gain wisdom, we should fear the LORD like Joseph, who avoided the temptation of Potiphar's wife.

Proverbs 9:10: “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.”

Adonai YHVH wants us to prepare for tribulation/affliction – In our times, we are already surrounded by episodes that we could consider as signs of the end. Just like in Egypt, Adonai used Joseph to warn and give Pharaoh instructions on how to prepare for the famine. But now, the Scriptures are the instructions of Adonai for us to prepare.

What should we be doing to get ready for the great tribulation and the second coming of Yeshua?

1 Corinthians 16:13 ESV: “Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong.”

Adonai YHVH redeems – The favorite son of the patriarch Jacob was sold into slavery, falsely accused of rape, and was also sent into prison and forgotten—yet his name would at last be remembered, and he would be redeemed and exalted as the second most powerful man in the land of Egypt. Adonai’s sovereign control over Joseph's life and position shows that He is a great Redeemer, the One who saves from destruction or danger.

True preparation is not gathering grain, but hearing God before the famine comes.

Like Joseph, are you preparing for tribulation by seeking wisdom from Adonai and storing up not only physical provision but spiritual discernment?

Remember, when God reveals the future, it is not to spark fear, but to stir faith-filled preparation

-- H A F T A R A H P O R T I O N --

In the Haftarah, the prophet Isaiah envisioned the downfall of Ariel, which has been variously interpreted as “the lion of God” or “the hearth of God”—the city of King David. Though Jerusalem is where the feasts were celebrated, it would be meaningless to Adonai, for the city would be humbled to the dust. But there will be a transition in verses 5–8, where Adonai will judge the nations that fought against Jerusalem, as these nations will be likened to a nightmare when one awakes.

Going to verses 9–16, Isaiah returned to Israel's wickedness because they listened to the false prophets around them instead of listening to the prophet of Adonai. They became blinded because their hearts were far from Him.

Verses 13–14 speak about the future man-made laws (Oral Torah) of the Pharisees that governed their lives instead of the Written Torah. In Matthew 15:6–9, Yeshua refers to this passage in Isaiah to speak to the Pharisees. They have put the ways of men into God’s words.

“Then he need not honor his father or mother.” Thus you have made the commandment of God of no effect by your tradition. Hypocrites! Well did Isaiah prophesy about you, saying:

“These people draw near to Me with their mouth,

And honor Me with their lips,

But their heart is far from Me.

And in vain they worship Me,

Teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.”

When the heart strays from the Word, worship becomes noise, and tradition replaces truth.

Have we allowed man-made traditions or comfort to dull our sensitivity to Adonai’s voice? Are we honoring Him only with our lips while our hearts are distracted or distant?

Jerusalem celebrated feasts, but lost intimacy with Adonai. In the same way, we can appear spiritual but be spiritually asleep. Adonai desires obedience more than ritual, and surrender more than performance.

-- APOSTOLIC P O R T I O N --

Our Apostolic portion deals with the sealing and deliverance of the twelve tribes of Israel together with the Goyim. Going back to Revelation 6:12–15, the sixth seal was opened and the great day of Adonai YHVH’s wrath is about to come. The question is: who is able to stand?

In chapter 7, Adonai sent another angel to inform the four angels to make sure that the 144,000 from the tribes of Israel are sealed. Each tribe has 12,000 seals, and the meaning of the number twelve in Hebrew is God’s power and authority. Twelve can also mean government. Aside from the 144,000, John envisioned a great multitude which no one could number from all nations, tribes, peoples, and tongues. They survived the great tribulation, and they’re clothed with white robes, holding palm branches in their hands, and crying, “Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!”

Since the number twelve means God’s power, authority, and government, these two groups of genuine believers will be delivered from the wrath of God because of His power and authority. And they will be one and become the government (Isaiah 9:7) of the Lamb, Messiah Yeshua, and He will wipe away every tear from their eyes. HalleluYAH!

Those who endure the fire of tribulation will shine with robes of glory in the presence of the Lamb.

Will you stand faithful when the shaking begins? Are you living like one sealed—separate, surrendered, and serving the Lamb without compromise?

The great multitude overcame not because they escaped the tribulation, but because they worshiped through it. You are not promised escape from suffering, but you are promised victory in Messiah Yeshua.

The connection of our Parasha is about suffering or tribulation. In the Torah, Joseph interpreted the two dreams of Pharaoh that speak about the seven years of bounty and the seven years of tribulation (famine) in the land of Egypt. In the Haftarah, Isaiah prophesied the tribulation (judgment) of Jerusalem because of her blindness, for her heart is far from Adonai. In the Apostolic portion, a great multitude from nations, tribes, peoples, and tongues will be delivered and will come out of the great tribulation.

Back to my introduction… Truly, there will be a great tribulation, such as has not been since the beginning of the world until this time, according to Yeshua (Matt. 24:21). Like Joseph and Pharaoh, they made a plan and preparation—and so should we.

Ezekiel 38:7

“Prepare yourself and be ready, you and all your companies that are gathered about you; and be a guard for them.”

Preparation is not panic—it’s positioning. Position yourself in Yeshua now, before the storm comes. Like Joseph, like the sealed ones, like the faithful remnant—be found ready.

Preparation, purity, and perseverance—these are the marks of those who trust in Adonai through every trial until the Lamb reigns.

Remember: We only have one Refuge, and His name is YESHUA! Endure until the end.

Shabbat Shalom,

Topher

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-- S O U R C E S --

householdoffaith.wordpress.com

superiorword.org

ask-aladdin.com

oncedelivered.net

gracebfcreading.org

israelmyglory.org

bibleresources.info

biblestudy.org

groupbiblestudy.com

twojourneys.org

The MacArthur Study Bible

Parasha 37: Blessing in Suffering and Persecution

Blessing in Suffering and Persecution

-- T O R A H   P O R T I O N --

Introduction:

Have you experienced persecution and suffering, yet God still blesses you?

Last week, Joseph was taken down to Egypt and bought by Potiphar, an officer of Pharaoh, from the Ishmaelites. Joseph became successful in the land because Adonai YHVH was with him—even Potiphar saw it. So he made Joseph overseer of his house and all that he had.

One day, the wife of his master seduced Joseph to lie with her, but he refused. Later, while Joseph was working alone in the house, the wife again tried to seduce him. This time, she took his garment and used it to convince Potiphar that Joseph had mocked her.

So Potiphar took Joseph and put him in prison. But Adonai YHVH was with Joseph, showing him mercy and granting him favor in the eyes of the prison warden, who committed all the prisoners into Joseph’s care.

One of my favorite stories and characters in the Bible is Joseph. He was Jacob's favorite son—and seemed to be life’s favorite target for trials as well. Our Torah portion shows Joseph’s life in prison. Instead of being anxious, sad, or hopeless, he displayed extraordinary determination and courage to overcome his trials. We can all relate to Joseph’s life, and we can learn valuable lessons from it.

Joseph was in prison, yet he remained faithful and without complaint, as if he knew that everything was part of God’s plan.

His story teaches us the following:

1. God’s Timing is Perfect and He is in Control

Genesis 40:1–4

“Some time later, the cupbearer and the baker of the king of Egypt offended their master, the king of Egypt. Pharaoh was angry with his two officials, the chief cupbearer and the chief baker, and put them in custody in the house of the captain of the guard, in the same prison where Joseph was confined. The captain of the guard assigned them to Joseph, and he attended them. After they had been in custody for some time.”

The cupbearer and the baker of Pharaoh held crucial roles in the palace. The cupbearer was responsible for serving Pharaoh drinks, ensuring his safety from poison, while the baker was responsible for all the baked goods. Yet Pharaoh became angry with them and sent them to prison—specifically, the same prison where Joseph was. Coincidence? I don't think so. This was a divine intervention from God.

Joseph met these two officials in prison, and they shared their dreams with him. After interpreting the cupbearer’s dream, Joseph asked him to mention his name to Pharaoh upon his release. Perhaps out of excitement or forgetfulness, the cupbearer did not keep his word. But God was still in control.

God's method differed from Joseph’s expectations. Joseph had once received dreams; now he interpreted them. Dreams became God’s tool again when Pharaoh had a dream no one could interpret—prompting the cupbearer to finally remember Joseph.

Have you ever felt hopeless or lost trust in God, only for Him to show you that He was in control of your situation?

We all have seasons of waiting. Like Joseph, we must trust and wait patiently. Let us be reminded that the Omnipotent God works in unfathomable ways.

2. God Prepares Whomever He Wants for a Purpose

Genesis 40:4–7

“The captain of the guard assigned them to Joseph, and he attended them. After they had been in custody for some time, each of the two men—the cupbearer and the baker of the king of Egypt, who were being held in prison—had a dream the same night, and each dream had a meaning of its own. When Joseph came to them the next morning, he saw that they were dejected. So he asked Pharaoh’s officials who were in custody with him in his master’s house, ‘Why do you look so sad today?’”

Why did Joseph receive dreams before, and now interpret others’ dreams? I believe his dreams pointed to his future role.

Let’s return to Genesis 37:5–7:

“Joseph had a dream, and when he told it to his brothers, they hated him all the more. He said to them, ‘Listen to this dream I had: We were binding sheaves of grain out in the field when suddenly my sheaf rose and stood upright, while your sheaves gathered around mine and bowed down to it.’”

His second dream was in verse 9: “Then he had another dream, and he told it to his brothers. ‘Listen,’ he said, ‘I had another dream, and this time the sun and moon and eleven stars were bowing down to me.’”

These two dreams were connected—they pointed to a time when Joseph would be exalted in Egypt.

How did it happen? First, he met the chief cupbearer and the chief baker in prison. Then, he interpreted their dreams.

Joseph was trusted both in Potiphar’s house and in prison. Who would have thought these were God’s preparations for a greater responsibility: becoming the governor of Egypt?

What is God preparing you for?

Maybe He is preparing you to play guitar or piano for Him.

Maybe He is preparing you to be a teacher of His Word.

Maybe He is preparing you for a great responsibility—like Joseph.

Or maybe He is preparing you for a great blessing that is coming into your life.

Remember: if Adonai is preparing us for something, there is a process—a process that shapes us and teaches us to be strong.

3. God Deserves All the Credit

Genesis 40:8

“‘We both had dreams,’ they answered, ‘but there is no one to interpret them.’

Then Joseph said to them, ‘Do not interpretations belong to God? Tell me your dreams.’”

The cupbearer and baker were sad because no one could interpret their dreams. Joseph’s response is remarkable in its humility: “Do not interpretations belong to God?”

Joseph could have said, “I can interpret your dreams,” but instead he gave the credit to the One who truly deserved it.

Sometimes we overcome trials and think it was our own strength or skill. But the real reason is this: God is Almighty!

Psalm 71:8: “My mouth is filled with Your praise, and with Your glory all the day.”

4. God Blesses Despite Suffering

Genesis 40:20–23

“Thus it came about on the third day, which was Pharaoh’s birthday, that he made a feast for all his servants; and he lifted up the head of the chief cupbearer and the head of the chief baker among his servants. He restored the chief cupbearer to his office, and he put the cup into Pharaoh’s hand; but he hanged the chief baker, just as Joseph had interpreted to them. Yet the chief cupbearer did not remember Joseph, but forgot him.”

After helping the cupbearer by interpreting his dream, Joseph was forgotten. His life was filled with suffering—betrayed by his brothers, falsely accused, imprisoned without cause, and now forgotten.

But God was with him—guiding, supporting, and preparing to bless him. Only by God's mercy and power would Joseph be freed and exalted.

Like Joseph, we too suffer and are persecuted. But remember: God is with us.

“Though the prison held his body, the hand of Adonai held his future; for those who remain faithful in chains shall rise in the strength of the Most High.”

-- H A F T A R A H P O R T I O N --

The Haftarah portion from Amos begins with a series of divine judgments pronounced against the nations surrounding Israel and eventually upon Israel and Judah themselves. The repeated phrase “For three transgressions and for four, I will not revoke the punishment” is a Hebraic idiom signifying that their sins were full, overflowing, and beyond the limits of divine patience. The cup of iniquity had been filled.

The judgment moves in a geographic circle, encompassing:

• Syria (Damascus) – for their cruelty in warfare (1:3–5)
• Philistia (Gaza) – for slave trafficking (1:6–8)
• Phoenicia (Tyre) – for breaking covenant and selling captives (1:9–10)
• Edom – for relentless vengeance against his brother Jacob (1:11–12)
• Ammon – for violent atrocities (1:13–15)
• Moab – for desecrating the bones of Edom’s king (2:1–3)
• Judah – for rejecting Adonai’s Torah (2:4–5)
• Israel – for systemic corruption, oppression, and idolatry (2:6ff)

This pattern reveals not just international wrongdoing but also a prophetic concentric target—where Israel is at the center of accountability. The judgment begins with the nations but closes in on God’s own people.

A key insight lies in the judgment against Tyre (Phoenicia). According to Amos 1:9–10, Tyre is condemned for violating the “covenant of brotherhood” by delivering up the exiles of Judah to Edom. This likely refers to historical alliances between Israel and Phoenicia (see 1 Kings 5:12), and their betrayal represents not just a political failure but a moral and spiritual rupture.

The betrayal of covenant mirrors the brotherly betrayal committed by Joseph’s brothers. In fact, the selling of the righteous for silver (Amos 2:6) draws a direct thematic parallel to Genesis 37:28, where Joseph is sold by his brothers. This is not coincidental. It becomes a prophetic picture of national sin—the seed of corruption planted by the patriarchs was now bearing rotten fruit in the nation.

The selling of the righteous one not only foreshadows Israel’s history of injustice but prophetically alludes to Yeshua, who too was betrayed and "sold" by His own people for silver (cf. Zechariah 11:12–13; Matthew 26:15).

Unlike the nations judged for violence and cruelty, Judah’s indictment is spiritual:

“Because they rejected the Torah of Adonai and did not keep His statutes...” (Amos 2:4)

Judah’s sin is not merely lawbreaking but Torah abandonment. This distinction is important—the rejection of instruction itself leads to moral decay. The prophet emphasizes that God holds His covenant people to a higher standard than the nations.

This serves as a warning to the faithful remnant today—not to assume immunity from judgment simply because of covenant status. Amos reminds us that privilege without obedience leads to ruin.

Prophetic warnings must lead to repentance and return to Torah.

As Psalm 19:9 says:

“The judgments of Adonai are true and altogether righteous.”

“The Lion has roared from Zion; His justice will not sleep forever. When mercy is despised, judgment walks in its place.”

-- APOSTOLIC P O R T I O N --

Yeshua opens His sermon with blessings for those who live by Kingdom values. The Greek word makarios (translated “blessed”) conveys a sense of divine approval, joy, and favor—not based on worldly success, but on spiritual posture before God. These statements turn the world’s values upside down, just as Joseph’s exaltation came not through power, but through suffering and endurance.

As Tim Hegg notes, Joseph was “persecuted for righteousness” and is thus a living parable of these beatitudes. Like Joseph, Messiah Yeshua exemplifies every trait in this list—humble, merciful, pure, peace-making, and ultimately persecuted unjustly.

What can we learn from these beatitudes?

1. Blessed are the poor in spirit (Matt. 5:3)

“For theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”

To be “poor in spirit” (anav ruach) reflects humility and dependence on God. Joseph, cast into the pit, remained faithful despite humiliation. Yeshua humbled Himself, taking the form of a servant (Phil. 2:7).

Proverbs 16:19 – “Better to be of a humble spirit with the lowly than to divide the spoil with the proud.”

2. Blessed are those who mourn (Matt. 5:4)

“For they shall be comforted.”

This mourning is not just sorrow, but teshuvah—repentance. Those who grieve over sin find comfort in God's mercy.

Joseph mourned injustice in silence. Yeshua wept over Jerusalem’s sin (Luke 19:41). Both awaited vindication from the Father.

3. Blessed are the meek (Matt. 5:5)

“For they shall inherit the earth.”

“Meek” (Greek praus, Hebrew anav) is strength under control—like Joseph in prison or Yeshua before Pilate.

Galatians 5:23 – “Gentleness (meekness) is a fruit of the Spirit.”

4. Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness (Matt. 5:6)

“For they shall be filled.”

Joseph longed for righteousness in a corrupt Egyptian court. The righteous cry out for justice—yet wait in trust.

Psalm 63:1 – “My soul thirsts for You… in a dry and thirsty land.”

Yeshua taught that true righteousness exceeds outward Torah-keeping; it flows from the heart transformed by God's Spirit.

5. Blessed are the merciful (Matt. 5:7)

“For they shall obtain mercy.”

Joseph extended mercy to Pharaoh's officers—even though he had suffered injustice himself. Yeshua, while being crucified, cried, “Father, forgive them.”

We are called not only to receive God’s mercy, but to mirror it.

6. Blessed are the pure in heart (Matt. 5:8)

“For they shall see God.”

“Pure in heart” echoes the Torah’s call for inner integrity (tamim lev). Yeshua’s emphasis was always internal—not mere ritual, but relational purity.

Torah must not only be in the hands and feet—but written upon the heart (Deut. 6:6).

Joseph demonstrated integrity in Potiphar’s house. Yeshua lived without deceit, the perfect image of the Father.

7. Blessed are the peacemakers (Matt. 5:9)

“For they shall be called sons of God.”

Greek: Eirenopoios—“one who makes peace.” True peace begins with reconciliation to God, then flows out in relationships.

Yeshua, the Prince of Peace, reconciles man to God and man to man. Joseph too became a peacemaker between his brothers and the future of Israel.

8. Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake (Matt. 5:10–12)

“For theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”

This beatitude echoes the life of Joseph and foreshadows Yeshua’s suffering. Righteousness provokes opposition. Yet, suffering is not the end—it is the doorway to glory.

1 Peter 4:13 – “Rejoice insofar as you share Messiah’s sufferings.”

Just as Joseph was forgotten in prison, so too was Yeshua rejected. But both were later exalted. Their example teaches us to endure unjust treatment for the sake of God's greater purpose.

“Joseph was persecuted for righteousness. Yeshua was crucified in perfect innocence. In them both, we see the path of the tzaddik—the righteous one who suffers, so that others might live.”

The Beatitudes are the halacha (walk) of the Kingdom. They describe how the citizens of heaven live—even in the midst of a fallen world.

The righteous are not great in the world’s eyes, but heaven knows their name; for in every wound of persecution, the Kingdom of Heaven draws near.”

Yeshua exemplified all eight beatitudes in His life. Our Apostolic portion ties together and concludes this Parasha:

“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”

We all face persecution and suffering. Though we may not understand the reason at the moment, we can later say it was a blessing—because it had a purpose.


1 Peter 5:10
“And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to His eternal glory in Messiah, will Himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.”


1 Peter 1:6–7
“In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory, and honor when Messiah Yeshua is revealed.”

The connection of our parasha is about God’s Purpose in Righteous Suffering.

In the Torah portion, Joseph is wrongly imprisoned and forgotten. Though righteous, he suffers betrayal, false accusation, and abandonment. In the Haftarah, Amos speaks judgment over the nations, but more severely over Judah and Israel, who have rejected Torah and “sold the righteous for silver.” In the Apostolic portion, Yeshua opens the Sermon on the Mount with the Beatitudes—blessings for the humble, the merciful, the pure, the persecuted.

And just like Joseph's long wait in the pit, and Israel's long exile, the Beatitudes teach us to wait with trust, live with purity, walk in peace, and suffer for righteousness—for we shall be comforted, satisfied, and ultimately see God.

The path of the righteous is forged in suffering, remembered in silence, and crowned in due time by the hand of the King.

Do not measure God’s favor by ease or applause. Instead, walk the path of the Beatitudes. Let mercy, humility, purity, and peace define your halacha—even when it hurts.

Matthew 5:10

“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” 

Shabbat Shalom,

Topher

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-- S O U R C E S --

bethmelekh.com

thetorah.com

jweekly.com

etzion.org.il

thefellowship.site

jsr.shanti.virginia.edu

groupbiblestudy.com

The MacArthur Study Bible

torahresource.com