a publication of Assemblies of Yahweh An Assemblies of Yahweh publication. Assemblies of Yahweh, The Narrow Way Newsletter, The Sacred Name Broadcaster, The Sacred Name ­Broadcast, The Sacred Scriptures, The Sacred Name Telecast, and WMLK Radio are Service Marks and Trade‑ marks of ­Assemblies of Yahweh, Bethel, PA 19507

November 2013 Volume XLV, Number 8 CONTENTS

1 Why Has Worldly Religion Sanctified a Pagan Holiday? When the Bible student can clearly prove from the inspired sacred Scriptures that the observance of December 25 as the Messiah’s birthday is totally impossible, why does the world continue to keep it? Page 1 5 Questions to Bethel Perplexing Bible questions are answered by harmonizing the sacred Scriptures from Genesis to Revelation. 8 Hanukkah During a time of severe religious persecution, the Jewish freedom fighters succeeded in driving out the forces of Antiochus Epiphanes. Each year, we remember their suf‑ fering and martyrdom and their subsequent victory. 10 The Birth of the Messiah A harmony of biblical accounts of the conception and birth of John the Baptist and Yahshua the Messiah pinpoint the birth of the Messiah at the Feast of Taber‑ Page 8 nacles—not as is commonly believed.

AUGUST OCTOBER 1 2 3 1 2 3 4 5 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 September 2013 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 27 28 29 30 31 15 Radio Message: The Creator’s Name in Laymen Terms, Part 3

FIRST SECOND THIRD FOURTH FIFTH SIXTH SABBATH

New Moon Ethanim 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Feast of Trumpets The repentant believer must have faith in the mighty Being who alone can save.

Jeremiah 45–48 Jeremiah 49–52 Lamentations 1–3 Lamentations 4–5 Ezekiel 1–3 Ezekiel 4–6 Ezekiel 7–9 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 Will you prove this Truth of the authenticity of the revealed Sacred Name?

Ezekiel 10–12 Ezekiel 13–15 Ezekiel 16–18 Ezekiel 19–21 Ezekiel 22–24 Ezekiel 25–27 Ezekiel 28–30

Day of First High 15 16 Atonement 17 18 19 20 21 Sabbath Feast of Tabernacles

Ezekiel 31–33 Ezekiel 34–36 Ezekiel 37–39 Ezekiel 40–42 Ezekiel 43–45 Ezekiel 46–48 Daniel 1–4

Last 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 Great Day Feast of 18 Born-Again Doctrine Tabernacles

Daniel 5–8 Daniel 9–12 Hosea 1–3 Hosea 4–6 Hosea 7–9 Hosea 10–12 Hosea 13–14 Feast of Trumpets— —Look for the new moon of Yahweh’s seventh scriptural SEPTEMBER September 7 About the Photo: A date month on the evening of September 6, which will verify the Feast of Trum- pets and the dates for the Day of Atonement and the Feast of Tabernacles. Day of Atonement— 29 30 palm heavily laden with September 16 ripe dates. The Feast of Tabernacles, and the Last Great Day mark Yahweh’s third pilgrim Feast, Deut. 16:16-17. The seventh month of the Roman calendar’s Feast of Tabernacles— Those who have repented and have been baptized into the Name of Yahshua by one name is derived from the Latin septem, meaning “seven.” September 21-27 SPECIAL NOTE: Scriptural days begin at sundown Last Great Day— Joel 1–3 Amos 1–3 of the previous day. September 28 of Yahweh’s ministers and have received the down payment of the Holy Spirit have Page 10 not been born again. They have been begotten anew to walk in newness of life.

The Sacred Name Broadcaster is published monthly by the Assemblies of Yahweh, Bethel, PA 19507. Your subscription has been paid Our Cover: by the willing co-workers of this ministry who are concerned that this The Mediterranean shore‑ message of salvation should be made available free of charge to all the line of Israel is a reminder of the world as a witness before the Second Coming of Yahshua the Messiah. While no charge is ever placed upon this publication, CONTRIBUTIONS promise that Yahweh made to (all of which are tax deductible) are gratefully accepted to help Abraham in Genesis 22. defray ­expenses. We hope you will share in making this information Yahweh promised that He available­ to others. would multiply the seed of Abraham “as the sand of the All quotes in The Sacred Name Broadcaster are from The seashore...because you have Sacred Scriptures, Bethel Edition, 1981, Assemblies of Yahweh, Bethel, obeyed my voice.” Genesis PA 19507, unless otherwise stated. All translations of the Bible quoted 22:17-18. herein have been corrected to be consistent with the oldest available Through Yahshua the Mes‑ manuscripts. Copies of The Sacred Scriptures, Bethel Edition, siah we can receive this blessing. are available. For information about purchasing your copy, write to “There can be neither Jew Assemblies of Yahweh. nor Greek, there can be nei- ther bond nor free, there can © Copyright 2013 Assemblies of Yahweh. All rights reserved. Periodical be no male and female; for postage paid at Reading, PA 19612 (ISSN 879320). Telephone (717) you are all one in the Messiah 933‑4518. POSTMASTERS: Send form 3579 to Assemblies of Yahweh, Yahshua. And if you are the PO Box C, Bethel, PA 19507. Cover: Ester Inbar Messiah’s, then you are Abra- ham’s seed, heirs according to the promise.” Galatians Founder and Author: Elder Jacob O. Meyer 3:28-29. Why Has Worldly Religion Sanctified a Pagan Holiday? When the Bible student can clearly prove from the inspired sacred Scriptures that the observance of December 25 as the Messiah’s birthday is totally impossible, why does the world continue to keep it?

By Elder Jacob O. Meyer

Every time we discuss the winter of human endeavor and reason of Abijah meant that he belonged holidays with anyone who acknowl- over the past century, but religion to the eighth priestly course. Begin- edges their interest in Truth, we continued to maintain their status ning to serve, course after course, immediately tell them that the quo of spiritual blindness acquired following the annual holy days; each Messiah’s birthday could not have in medieval times. course served for one week. There- been on December 25. Many of the You may ask how we can prove fore, the first service of the year of people freely acknowledge that we that the Messiah was not born on the course of Abijah occurred just are treating the Scriptures with December 25. The evidence con- after the observance of the feast of great accuracy, just as we do with cerning this conclusion forthrightly Pentecost (Shavuoth in Hebrew). By all Assemblies of Yahweh doctrines. appears in Luke chapters 1 and 2. perusing an Assemblies of Yahweh We strive to be most meticulous Zachariah, the husband of Elizabeth, calendar which notes the annual with our interpretation of the sacred was a member of the priestly course holidays, the interested individual Scriptures. of Abijah. Customarily, few people can easily begin to count the time. The author was once able to ever take the time, or have the in- Zechariah completed his service on present this scriptural exegetical terest, in defining these terms. The the weekly Sabbath, then it took interpretation to a Bible study interested Bible student can easily him another several days to return group affiliated with a well-known scan 1 Chronicles chapter 24 and to his home which was located in denomination in our area. Sitting learn much about the assignments of the hill country of Judah. See Luke in the group was the pastor of service for the priestly responsibili- 1:39. Thereafter, Elizabeth, his wife, the ch-rch. Indeed he revealed his ties in the Tabernacle and Temple. became pregnant. skepticism when, at the end of my You can also prove when Yahshua Now, count off six months and discussion, he remarked, “Well, was really born by using these the scriptural account continues we simply don’t see things this courses of service. The annunciation with the angel Gabriel being sent to way.” The author had introduced of impending parenthood and the Nazareth to announce to the virgin his presentation with Daniel 12:4, birth of their son Yahanan (John) Miriam that she was blessed to bear insisting that knowledge had been was made during Zachariah’s order the Messiah. This occurred in the increased in practically every field of service in his course. The course month which the world commonly

The Sacred Name Broadcaster, 11/2013 1 sacred Scriptures plainly daleth (Semitic letter “d”) means tells us in verse 24 that child’s day. When the yule log is Elizabeth hid herself five burned by various cultures to this months, and then, in very day, they are symbolically burn- the SIXTH MONTH, the ing the old year, burning the old angel Gabriel made the solar being, and getting prepared annunciation to Miriam. to install the child, or the new year, Then, we clearly read in sol invictus (the unconquerable sun). verse 36, “ ...she also has Ancient pagan religions glorified conceived a son in her nature worship. Even to this day, old age; and this is the some ethnic peoples are still moti- sixth month with her vated by the worship of nature. The that was called bar- pagan people could readily view the ren.” Context, therefore, sun moving away from them and the eliminates the identifica- temperatures becoming colder, while tion of the sixth month the weather became more threaten- as the sixth month of the ing in the fall and winter. The days year and demands that we became increasingly shorter as the calls December. understand it as the sixth sun set earlier while it traveled The author, along with his family, month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy. toward the southern hemisphere. once visited an elderly lady who had Occasionally, people ask, “Could Then, suddenly they noticed that been a Catholic, but had become we not start with John the Baptist’s the sun stood still in its southward genuinely interested in the Assem- conception in wintertime and go departure. After several days, they blies of Yahweh ministry. As Mrs. from that source?” Actually, such could notice that the day had now Meyer and I sat at her dining room an interpretation is also prohibited become several minutes longer as table studying the sacred Scriptures, when we consider John 1:14. “And the sun continued to move north day I explained that the Messiah’s birth the Word became flesh, and by day. Therefore, a wild celebra- could not have been on December tabernacled among us (and we tion took place during which they 25. I took her calendar and super- beheld his glory, glory as of the praised the Almighty for the birth imposed upon it Yahweh’s annual only begotten from the Father), of the new son (actually identified holidays for that year. The study, full of grace and truth.” with “SUN”). as it will, revealed that the Messiah Consequently, it is clearly proven From the Babylonian mystery was actually conceived in early De- from the Bible, without any question religions, we learn that Nimrod, cember. The date of His conception, at all, that the Messiah was not born the great-grandson of Noah, had as we were plotting it on the calen- on December 25, but, rather, His become very wicked. Nimrod was dar, fell on the Catholic feast of the conception took place around the leading people away from Yahweh Immaculate Conception. This lady beginning of De- became quite agitated and horror cember (the Hebrew stricken. How could the Messiah be month—Chisleu). conceived and then born two weeks Why was December after His conception? This would be 25 selected any- impossible, she realized. I injected way to be the date that some of the Catholic authorities for the Messiah’s specify the “immaculate conception” birth? From the as being that of the virgin Miriam, Babylonian myster- but there is no indication anywhere ies and other pagan in the sacred Scriptures that this is religions comes the possible. However, as you continue observance of the counting from the date specified winter solstice as in Luke chapter 1, specifying the the birthday of the Messiah’s conception, you will end new son (make with Yahweh’s Feast of Tabernacles that SUN!). For in the seventh scriptural month the example, in Semit- following fall. ic languages, the Sometimes it appears as though word yalad means people wish to identify the sixth a child. The term month in Luke 1:26 to be the sixth yule, dropping the month of the year. However, the

2 The Sacred Name Broadcaster, 11/2013 doctrinally. His great-uncle, Shem, And shall I be inquired of by you, Historically, the Chr-stmas tree the brother of his grandfather, Ham, O house of Israel? As I live, says popularity in our modern time is finally brought him to justice and the Sovereign Yahweh, I will not said to trace to the time when Queen had him executed for apostasy from be inquired of by you; and that Victoria married Prince Albert of the true Faith. which comes into your mind Germany. Albert was said to have However, in the meantime, his shall not be at all, in that you brought with him the tradition of wife, Semiramis, had become preg- say, We will be as the nations, as a Chr-stmas tree, which was then nant. She began to spread the rumor the families of the countries, to adopted by English culture and that Nimrod had been reincarnated serve wood and stone,” (Ezekiel religion. Thereafter, historians note as the child in her womb. When her 20:28, 31-32). that the custom was transferred to child was born at the winter solstice, Why does ch-rchianity seemingly the United States of America. This she named him Tammuz and pre- worship Chr-stmas trees every year would make the Chr-stmas tree fad sented him as a reincarnation of her at the winter solstice? All of this only about 150 years old. However, husband, Nimrod. Thereafter, some tradition comes directly from pagan- we must remind the reader that both of the legend becomes confused, and ism. There is there is a question: Was Nimrod no Scripture to the child of his wife, who was his encourage, or, mother, or was Nimrod married to for that mat- Semiramis, who was his mother ter, command, when she gave birth to Tammuz? that an ever- Similar confusion of persons can green tree be be detected today in the Chr-stian brought into a religion. house dedicat- In the Babylonian religion, the ed to worship death of Nimrod was depicted as and be set up. a tree cut down. Around the dead Furthermore, stump curls the serpent of Aescala- many ch-rches, pastors, and lay ancient Babylonian and Egyptian pius, the ancient physician mighty members place round Chr-st mas religion incorporated the worship one. Next to the portrayal of the wreaths on their front door every of trees at the winter solstice. dead tree stump sprouts a new little year. Why are these wreaths round? While we are discussing vegeta- evergreen tree, which symbolized The answer is because they depict tion, we should also remember that the birth of the new son, or Tam- the solar disc, the sun beginning the mistletoe, to which so many muz. The new son could readily be its new journey northward, the people take delight at Xmas time, portrayed by the new solar year at beginning of a new year, and they is a parasitic plant. It is poisonous the winter solstice. Therefore, the portray the revival, or rebirth, of if eaten, as are poinsettias, the red burning of the yule log each year the unconquerable sun. flower of the winter holiday season. depicts the dead Nimrod, and the Jeremiah the prophet clearly It was the Druids who taught the so-called Chr-stmas tree depicts the describes modern-day Chr-stmas acceptance of the mistletoe and birth of Tammuz, his new son (sun). trees in Jeremiah 10:2-5. “Thus perpetuated many of its traditions The setting up of a Chr-stmas tree says Yahweh, Learn not the today, for example, kissing under has actually been strictly prohibited way of the nations, and be not the mistletoe. by the sacred Scriptures. In Ezekiel dismayed at the signs of heaven; The Roman soldiers, the army of chapter 20 we find, “For when I for the nations are dismayed Imperial Rome, had a great deal to had brought them into the land, at them. For the customs of the do with circulating these customs which I swore to give to them, peoples are vanity; for one cuts throughout the known world. The then they saw every high hill, a tree out of the forest, the work popular religion of the Roman and every thick tree, and they of the hands of the workman armies was the religion of Mithra. offered there their sacrifices, and with the axe. They deck it with The term Mithra, as seen through there they presented the provo- silver and with gold; they fasten Semitic philology, might mean death cation of their offering; there it with nails and with hammers, of the ruler, and that is what Mithra also they made their sweet savor, that it moves not. They are like depicted. The mighty one would sit and they poured out there their a palm tree, of turned work, and astride a bull and thrust a knife drink-offerings.... And when you speak not: they must necessarily into his neck severing the jugular offer your gifts, when you make be borne, because they cannot go. vein. From the flowing blood of the your sons to pass through the Be not afraid of them; for they bull, the fertility for the crops in fire, do you pollute yourselves cannot do evil, neither is it in the following year could be derived. with all your idols to this day? them to do good.” Mithra worship also depicted many

The Sacred Name Broadcaster, 11/2013 3 traditional relationships to the wor- The Saturnalia was a time of only later that December 25 became ship of the sun. great feasting and abandon. People prominent as a holiday, sanctioned The Chr-stmas observance surely took precautions to bathe before the by the government and religion here presents the thinking Bible stu- festivities began in the morning, in the United States. dent with a paradox when we find so they could spend the entire day The great-grandmother of the au- so many doctrinal relationships eating and drinking. Slaves were thor used to explain that when she between Chr-stianity and the an- given liberty during that time and was young, people did not observe cient pagan worship of the sun. were often served by their masters Chr-stmas as the traditions later For example, Yahweh declares His at the feast. Public affairs were developed. She clearly said that day of rest and worship to be the generally suspended. Courts did not the schools remained open during seventh-day Sabbath, commonly sit, schools were closed, commercial Chr-stmas week. called Saturday, but Chr-stianity and all military activity were sus- When we can prove all of these has transferred the sanctity of this pended. At the Saturnalia, among facts from the Bible and history, why holy day to the first day of the week, the dishes most prominently served do people continue to observe what Sunday. Chr-stianity claims that for breakfast and supper was boar’s is clearly a pagan holiday and con- the Messiah was born at the winter head, stuck with rosemary and an trary to the teachings of the sacred solstice, when, in fact, he was born apple or orange in its mouth, ac- Scriptures? Using these traditions as at the Feast of Tabernacles (and companied by plum porridge and a springboard toward a spirit that is circumcised on the eighth day of minced pies. All of these traditions not the Holy Spirit of Yahweh, the that holy season). (You can get some were intended to honor a pagan observance of this holiday, although very strange looks from friends and mighty one.

The Chr-stmas observance surely presents the thinking Bible student with a paradox when we find so many doctrinal relationships between Chr-stianity and the ancient pagan worship of the sun. relatives when you tell them, “We Why was December 25 selected remembered the Messiah’s birth as the birthday of the Messiah when pagan in origin, is hyped with ma- during the Feast of Tabernacles.”) so many authorities acknowledge terialism and merchandising. It is With the death of the Messiah on that He was not born at that time? obvious that most people get their Passover day as prescribed in the It was the historian Julius Sextus Chr-stmas spirit from a bottle! That sacred Scriptures, ch-rchianity has Africanus, a historian of Alexandria, spirit causes much grief and many transferred the worship of that time Egypt, who composed a chronicle heartaches each year. to the resurrection day, which they of events of the world to 221 C. E. Why not make the decision this specify to have been on a Sunday. In Therefore, it took historians two year to drop out of the system? fact, there are no seventy-two hours and a quarter centuries after the Worship Almighty Yahweh, obey His possible between Friday afternoon Messiah’s birth, actually to decide holy days, reject the worldly holidays and Sunday morning, although that His birth date was at the winter that have no meaning where your Yahshua the Messiah declared this solstice, December 25. salvation is concerned. Rely upon the to be the only sign of His Messiah- Yet, many of the fundamentalist promises of Almighty Yahweh to save ship. See Matthew 12:40. You can Bible students continue to reject De- you through His only begotten Son, notice how so many of the practices cember 25 as the Messiah’s birthday. Yahshua the Messiah, who was born of ch-rchianity revolve around days Furthermore, the Pilgrim fathers at the Feast of Tabernacles and cir- on which the ancient people wor- went so far as to declare that the cumcised on the eighth day. Receive shiped the sun. Messiah’s birthday should not be His Holy Spirit, which comes from So many of the Chr-stmas tradi- observed like that of a Roman em- obedience to His Word (Acts 5:32). tions that are observed today are peror. In the book, History of the Join the remnant Assembly of the derived from the ancient Roman Plymouth Plantation, the Pilgrim Messiah that keeps the command- observance of the Saturnalia. Sat- fathers are reported to have worked ments of Yahweh and has the Faith urnalia was observed around the on December 25 as just another day of Yahshua the Messiah (Revelation time of the winter solstice each year. of labor during the week. It was 12:14 and 14:12).

4 The Sacred Name Broadcaster, 11/2013 Questions to Bethel

Where should one go today to observe Yahweh’s feast days? Where on this earth Q. today has Yahweh placed His Name? ~Virginia and truth: for such does the Fa- The Assemblies of Yahweh This is supported by the words of Our fathers ther seek to be his worshipers. members gather three times Yahshua the Messiah, “ A. worshiped in this mountain; Yahweh is Spirit: and they that each year for the three pilgrim feasts and you say, that in Jerusalem worship him must worship in in obedience to the command in is the place where men ought to spirit and truth, ’’ (John 4:20-24). Leviticus 23. Complete information worship. Yahshua says to her, Just as when Israel, while in the is available for anyone desiring to Woman, believe me, the hour wilderness, worshiped Almighty attend Yahweh’s holy Sabbath ser- comes, when neither in this Yahweh at the Tabernacle, which vices or feast days. was moveable, during the journey You will find in 1 Kings 8:43 that mountain, nor in Jerusalem, shall you worship the Father. You from Egypt to the Promised Land, Yahweh placed His Name in His the Assemblies of Yahweh leadership Temple. Inasmuch as we are His worship that which you know not: we worship that which we selects the site to which all Israel spiritual Temple, wherever two or is called for the united worship of know; for salvation is from the three of us gather together in His Yahweh. Additionally, at all times, Jews. But the hour comes, and Name, His Name is there—and that the membership recognizes the now is, when the true worshipers means He is there with us (Mat- Headquarters at Bethel, because at thew 18:20). shall worship the Father in spirit all times His Name is here!

Didn’t the law of tithing pertain only to Levites? What makes you think it is still Q. applicable today? ~California

Consider carefully the pas- will redeem any of his tithe, he Hebrews 6:18-7:28. Yahshua the A.sage of Malachi 4:4, which shall add to it the fifth part of it. Messiah is the Great Melchizedek is an admonition to those of us And all the tithe of the herd or High Priest today, and His Body the flock whatever passes under who will be living just prior to the functions under His leadership. The the rod, the tenth shall be holy Day of Yahweh, “Remember the Laws of both the Melchizedek and law of Moses my servant, which to Yahweh. He shall not search Levitical priesthood are virtually the I commanded to him in Horeb whether it is good or bad, neither for all Israel, even statutes and shall he change it: and that for same, except for the line of succes- sion. The Levitical succession was ordinances.” Then, turning back which it is changed shall be holy; through parentage (genealogy); the to Deuteronomy 12, we note the it shall not be redeemed.” statutes and judgments introduced. The Levites received the tithes in people of the Melchizedek priesthood As we read through the Law of the era of sacrifices. See Numbers are succeeded through Yahshua’s Yahweh, we come to Leviticus 27:30- 18. Before that, Melchizedek was personal selection. 33, which is the tithing Law. “And the priest of Yahweh. See Gen- During the Kingdom Age, the all the tithe of the land whether esis 14:18-20. After the sacrifices Levitical priesthood will be restored of the seed of the land, or of the ended, the Levites were set aside, to function as Melchizedek priests fruit of the tree, is Yahweh’s: it and the Melchizedek priesthood under the King Yahshua. See Ezekiel is holy to Yahweh. And if a man was restored. See Malachi 2:9 and 44:15-31.

The Sacred Name Broadcaster, 11/2013 5 I notice the use of the words YAHWEH NISSI on some of the car bumpers of the Q.Assemblies of Yahweh members. Would you explain what Nissi means, and how do you pronounce it? Where in the Scriptures is the term used? ~Arkansas pronunciation suggested by the The term appears in Exodus Strong’s Concordance is Nis-see. A.17:15, which reads, “And (Technically, the Hebrew word has a Moses built an altar, and called short i following the n and a long i the name of it Yahweh-nissi....” [as in machine] following the s.) It The Companion Bible states means a standard (flag or banner). that this term means Yahweh [is] Yahweh has promised to engage in my banner and comprises one of war against Israel’s enemies for all Yahweh’s titles. The Strong’s Ex- generations, under His title con- haustive Concordance of the nected to His Name—Yahweh Nissi. Bible confirms this definition. The We faithfully trust in this promise.

Isn’t the name “Assemblies of Yahweh’’ presumptuous? Other religious groups, Q. including the Roman Catholics, use the Name Yahweh also. ~Pennsylvania

As stated in the Assemblies for identification, and it is most im- Headquarters for those who have A.of Yahweh Statement of portant, of course, to select a name VOLUNTARILY JOINED THIS Doctrine Preamble, this organiza- with a scriptural basis. There are ORGANIZATION, since they have tion was founded to confront the several possible names found in the proven that here is the place where confusion and false doctrines that sacred Scriptures that we could have the whole counsel of Yahweh’s Word were found throughout the nomi- used. We have selected the name is being taught at the end of the age. nal Sacred Name Movement. Even (we believe) that is best qualified We are striving diligently to qualify to represent our understanding of among those people who espoused as the Body of the Messiah that is the Body of True Worshipers: “As- the necessity of using the Sacred prophesied to be raised up before semblies of Yahweh.’’ This is the Names, there was very little evident identifying name of the organization. the Second Coming of Yahshua at doctrinal unity, very little agree- The International Headquarters for the end of the age. We are striv- ment on even the basic doctrines of the various scattered Assemblies ing for the perfection required to the Bible. Yet, the True Worshipers and individuals who join this effort meet Yahshua the Messiah in the must be unified (Ephesians 4:3, 13; 1 is registered in the commonwealth air when He returns. We clearly Corinthians 12:12-13; Romans 12:5; of Pennsylvania. Service mark recognize that we cannot remain in etc.). Therefore, to promote effective registrations have been retained organizations that do not try to fulfill unity and progress, it was necessary in other states, as well as many to form an organization that teaches Yahweh’s Covenant as perfectly as foreign countries. “And I heard another and enforces true doctrines. We had possible. The Assemblies of Yahweh Head- voice from heaven, saying, Come to come out of organizations that are quarters does not presume to forth, my people, out of her, that not in sound doctrine, even though represent all who use, or even all they may indeed occasionally use you have no fellowship with her who teach the exclusive use of sins, and that you receive not of the Sacred Name. Yahweh’s Name, nor do we inter- her plagues,’’ An organization needs a name fere with their worship. It is the (Revelation 18:4). Q.Why do the men of the Assemblies of Yahweh all wear beards? ~Maryland The command for men to Even in mourning, one is not al- 133:2. See also Jeremiah 9:27 in the lowed to trim, or shave, his beard. A.wear beards is found in Le- more modern translations (Revised See Leviticus 19:27-28 in context; viticus 19:27 and 21:5. These two Standard Version, for example). also review Leviticus 21:5 in context. Therefore, the men of the As- verses clearly show that a man Some of the other passages that should not be clean shaven. They confirm that men who worship our semblies of Yahweh wear beards also indicate that men should not Heavenly Father should wear beards in order to conform to the biblical trim their beards. are Ezra 9:3, Ezekiel 5:1, and Psalm commandments.

6 The Sacred Name Broadcaster, 11/2013 Q u e s t i o n s T o B e t h e l Q.How does one receive the Holy Spirit? ~Pennsylvania the Spirit of truth: that the world The Holy Spirit is given to Him, like the spiritual Elohim fam- A.those who are obedient to cannot receive; for it beholds it ily, and less carnal in our natures Yahweh’s Word, as we find in Acts not, neither knows it: you know and attitudes. See John 6:63. 5:32. “And we are witnesses of it; for it remains with you, and We find that this power is con- these things; and so is the Holy shall be in you.” ferred by the laying on of hands, Spirit, which Yahweh has given But, first, one must qualify by by a qualified elder. In Acts 8:14- to them that obey him.” Paul being baptized into the Name of 21, the Apostles were called from asked in 2 Corinthians 6:14, “Be Yahshua the Messiah. No other Jerusalem to Samaria by Philip to not unequally yoked with unbe- name will do! “And in none other lay hands on those who had been lievers: for what fellowship have is there salvation: for neither baptized so that they could receive righteousness and iniquity? Or is there any other name under the Holy Spirit. what communion has light with heaven, that is given among men, When Simon Magus was bap- darkness?” We are the temple of in which we must be saved,” (Acts tized, he also desired this gift. Upon Yahweh, and His Spirit cannot dwell 4:12). “And Peter said unto them, asking the Apostles if he could in that temple unless it is cleansed Repent and be baptized every one buy this awesome gift of the Holy and sanctified to receive the Holy of you in the name of Yahshua Spirit with money, he was straight- Spirit of Yahweh and Yahshua from the Messiah to the remission of forwardly informed that he could On High. The Messiah predicated your sins; and you shall receive not receive this priceless blessing, the conferment of the Holy Spirit the gift of the Holy Spirit. For to because his heart was “not right upon seeing the fruit of righteous- you is the promise, and to your before Yahweh.” (Acts 8:21). ness and obedience of the recipient children, and to all that are afar After immersion, each qualified person, as we can understand from off, even as many as Yahweh our and cleansed new member has John 14:14-17. “If you shall ask Elohim shall call to him.” hands laid upon him by the elders anything in my name, that will I Throughout the inspired Word, who are present. They pray to Al- do. If you love me, you will keep a consistent explanation appears mighty Yahweh in Yahshua’s Name my commandments. And I will proving that Yahweh’s Holy Spirit is that he may receive the Holy Spirit pray the Father, and he shall His Word producing a supernatural and mature into a viable member give you another Comforter, that force, a spiritual quality, a dynamic who becomes a credit to Yahweh’s it may be with you forever, even life given by Yahweh to make us like Assembly.

Do you have any information on those writings known as “the lost books of the Q. Bible?’’ ~Iowa Assemblies of Yahweh accepts the Over the centuries, there as “the lost books of the Bible.’’ Most of these documents came into fact that the Bible represents the A.have been many writings existence in the years following the Word of Yahweh, we look to that that a few modern Bible students writings of the Apostles and other Word for our guidance. Whenever have asserted should have been in- New Testament authors. However, a document differs doctrinally from cluded in the book that we call the there is no evidence that they were the Bible, it must be rejected as not Bible. However, it must be noted, considered as inspired by their con- being inspired by Almighty Yahweh first of all, that there is absolutely temporaries, or by the generation if we accept the fact that He changes no evidence that any of these letters, that lived immediately after they not (Malachi 3:6). essays, and other documents were were written. These so-called lost books of the ever considered as inspired at the Additionally, these documents Bible fail many necessary tests of time of their writing. frequently contain statements authenticity and are rejected by There are many questions which are not in harmony with the responsible Bible scholars as having concerning the authenticity and sound doctrines and with the sacred little validity except, in some cases, authorship of the writings known Scriptures themselves. Since the for historical purposes.

The Sacred Name Broadcaster, 11/2013 7 Hanukkah Should we observe Hanukkah as the Q. Jews do today? -A reader from Florida

The term Hanukkah means dedication and is mentioned in the New Testament in John 10:22. The date of the occasion represents the time when the Maccabees regained control of the Temple in Jeru- salem from the pollution introduced by Antiochus Epiphanes. The Temple was thereafter rededicated to the worship of Almighty Yahweh. Although the Feast of Dedication is not mentioned in Leviticus 23 as a commanded convocation, the Assemblies of Yahweh each year remembers the occasion. However, we do not celebrate Hanukkah as a substitute for Chr-stmas as the Jews do. We do remember the Feast of Tabernacles during that time, as we light the lamps each night.

The Feast of Hanukkah (the again in control of Jerusalem and cording to the laws of Yahweh, feast of lights) is said to relate to the Temple was cleansed. During but to pollute the temple in the inter-testamental era of Judah the eight days of cleansing, tradition Jerusalem and to call it that of Maccabeus. It was his valiant ­effort says that a small flask of oil (the the OLYMPIAN ZEUS, and to as a freedom fighter and guerrilla only one available) maintained the call the one in Gerizim that of commander of the Jewish resistance menorah light. ZEUS the Hospitable, in keep- forces that succeeded in driving out The account of this period in the ing with the character of those the Syrian army during the reign history of the Jews can be found in who lived there. This harshly of the pagan Antiochus Epiphanes. the apocryphal books of Maccabees. and most grievously intensified After Antiochus initiated the apex of The following quotes will give you the evil. For the heathen filled insults against the Temple worship some idea of the gravity of the situ- the temple with profligacy and in an effort to stamp out the Israelite ation they faced. revelry, amusing themselves with Faith by sacrificing a young sow on prostitutes and lying with women within the sacred precincts, and the altar and erecting a statue of 2 Maccabees 6:1-11 himself in the Temple, the Macca- bringing into it things that were bees fought to drive out the pagan “Not long after, the king sent forbidden. The altar was covered army and cleanse the Temple for the an old Athenian to force the with abominable offerings, which restoration of pure worship. After Jews to forsake the laws of their the laws forbade. A man could three years, the Jews were once forefathers and cease to live ac- not keep the sabbath or celebrate

8 The Sacred Name Broadcaster, 11/2013 the festivals of his forefathers, or temples and SACRIFICE HOGS in Israel stood firm and resolved admit he was a Jew at all. On and UNCLEAN CATTLE; and to in their hearts not to eat what the monthly celebration of the leave their sons uncircumcised was unclean; they preferred king’s birthday, they were taken and defile themselves with every death to being polluted with by ­bitter necessity to taste the unclean and profane practice, so food or profaning the sacred sacrifices, and when the festival that they might forget the Law agreement, and so they died. And of Dionysus was celebrated, they and change all their religious Israel suffered intensely.” were compelled to wear wreaths ordinances; and anyone who of ivy and march in procession did not obey the command of the in his honor. At Ptolemy’s sug- king should die. He wrote to his 1 Maccabees 4:42-60 gestion a decree was issued to whole kingdom, to this effect, “And he appointed priests the neighboring Greek towns, and he appointed inspectors over that were without blemish and that they should adopt the same all the people, and he ordered adherents of the Law, and they policy toward the Jews and make the towns of Judah every one of purified the sanctuary and them taste the sacrifices, and them to offer sacrifice. And many carried out the stones that had that they should slay any who of the people and everyone who defiled it to an unclean place. would not agree to adopt Greek was ready to forsake the Law And they deliberated as to what customs. So anyone could see how joined with them and they did they should do about the altar of their misery was intensified. For wrong in the land, and forced burnt offering, which had been two women were brought in for Israel to hide in ­every hiding- polluted. And a good idea oc- circumcising their children, and place they had. curred to them—to take it down, they led them publicly about the “ON THE FIFTEENTH DAY OF so that it might never be thrown city with their babies hanging CHISLEU, in the one hundred up to them that the heathen had at their breasts, and then threw and forty-fifth year, he erected polluted it; so they took down the them down from the top of the a dreadful desecration upon altar, and deposited the stones wall-. Others who had gathered the altar, and in the towns of in the temple mountain, in a in caves near by, to keep the sev- Judah round about they built suitable place, until a prophet enth day in ­secret, were betrayed altars, and at the doors of their should come and declare what to Philip and all burned together, houses and in the squares they should be done with them. And because they had scruples about burned incense, and wher- they took whole stones, defending themselves, in their ever they found the book of the as the Law re- respect for the dignity of that Law, they tore them up and quired, and most holy day.” burned them, and if any- built a one was found to possess n e w a book of the agree- 1 Maccabees 1:41-64 ment or respected the Law, the king’s “Then the king wrote to his decree condemned whole kingdom that they should him to death. The all become one people, and every- Israelites who ap- one should give up his particular peared from month practices. And all the heathen to month in the assented to the command of towns they treated the king. And many from Israel with force. ON THE agreed to his kind of worship TWENTY-FIFTH OF and offered sacrifice to idols THE MONTH THEY and broke the sabbath. And the OFFERED SACRIFICE king sent word by messengers UPON THE ALTAR to Jerusalem and the towns of WHICH WAS SET UP ON Judah to follow practices foreign THE ALTAR OF BURNT OF- to the country and put a stop FERING. The women who had to whole burnt offerings and circumcised their children they sacrifices and drink offerings put to death under the decree, at the sanctuary, and to break hanging the babies around the sabbaths and profane the their necks, and destroying feasts and pollute sanctuary their families and the men who and sanctified; to build altars had circumcised them. Yet many and sacred precincts and idol

The Sacred Name Broadcaster, 11/2013 9 AUGUST OCTOBER 1 2 3 1 2 3 4 5 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 September 2013 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 27 28 29 30 31

FIRST SECOND THIRD FOURTH FIFTH SIXTH SABBATH

New Moon Ethanim 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Feast of The Birth Trumpets

Jeremiah 45–48 Jeremiah 49–52 Lamentations 1–3 Lamentations 4–5 Ezekiel 1–3 Ezekiel 4–6 Ezekiel 7–9 8of9 the10 11Messiah12 13 14

Ezekiel 10–12 Ezekiel 13–15 Ezekiel 16–18 Ezekiel 19–21 Ezekiel 22–24 Ezekiel 25–27 Ezekiel 28–30

Day of First High 15 16 Atonement 17 18 19 20 21 Sabbath Feast of Tabernacles

Ezekiel 31–33 Ezekiel 34–36 Ezekiel 37–39 Ezekiel 40–42 Ezekiel 43–45 Ezekiel 46–48 Daniel 1–4

Last 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 Great Day Feast of Tabernacles

Daniel 5–8 Daniel 9–12 Hosea 1–3 Hosea 4–6 Hosea 7–9 Hosea 10–12 Hosea 13–14 Feast of Trumpets— —Look for the new moon of Yahweh’s seventh scriptural SEPTEMBER September 7 About the Photo: A date month on the evening of September 6, which will verify the Feast of Trum- pets and the dates for the Day of Atonement and the Feast of Tabernacles. Day of Atonement— 29 30 palm heavily laden with September 16 ripe dates. The Feast of Tabernacles, and the Last Great Day mark Yahweh’s third pilgrim Feast, Deut. 16:16-17. The seventh month of the Roman calendar’s Feast of Tabernacles— On Which Day Wasname is derived fromthe the Latin septem Savior, meaning “seven.” Born?September 21-27 SPECIAL NOTE: Scriptural days begin at sundown Last Great Day— Joel 1–3 Amos 1–3 of the previous day. September 28

It appears strange to note how by At the outset of our study it is many people are disillusioned each Elder Jacob O. Meyer important that we establish bibli- year while celebrating Chr-stmas cal authority to observe birthdays, with the universal materialism which years). If you have an open mind, if we can. The traditional, popular seems to dampen the Chr-stmas let us carefully examine these facts observance of birthdays with the spirit. Concerned ministers and to learn whether we really should customary cake, candles, and gifts Sunday School teachers frequently observe the birthday of our Savior, is associated closely with the Chr- repeat the exhortation to restore as do most people, on December stmas observance. First, we should the scriptural story of the Savior’s 25th each year. ask ourselves if such an observance birth to the Chr-stmas observance. In nominal Chr-stianity we find is anywhere commanded in the This urging goes largely unheeded, that all of the doctrines and prac- Word. The answer, upon checking however, as the story of our Savior’s tices on which the average church a good concordance, is obvious. birth is relegated to second position member bases his worship appear to Birthdays are mentioned only twice behind the more popular Santa be traced to the Bible. Something is in the Bible, with a possible third Claus myth. It should be obvious wrong, however, since we find that occurrence which has been veiled to all who question the trend of the there is little agreement among under an awkward translation. None Chr-stmas celebrations over recent various denominations on how the of these instances are connected years that nothing anyone can say, Bible message should be applied. In to any biblical command to do so. or do, will reverse the course of fact, some fundamentalist groups Conversely, the evidence of what this materialistic observance. The in existence today do not celebrate occurred on each of these occasions people of our contemporary society Chr-stmas simply because they can- compels us to conclude that the seem to delight in celebrating these not find it to be commanded in the birthday observance has a rather worldly annual holidays. It is only Scriptures. These groups are few and unpleasant, dubious reputation. On a relative few who are sufficiently far between, however, and their wit- each of these recorded scriptural diligent to investigate the facts ness is almost completely inundated birthday occasions violent death oc- which are pertinent to understand- by the determined resistance of the curred, as we may see from reading ing the drift of society which has majority of people against departing the context of each of the following taken place (especially in recent from inherited tradition. passages: Genesis 40:20, Matthew

10 The Sacred Name Broadcaster, 11/2013 14:6, and Job 1:4 (“his day” in the the War of the Maccabees. This Hebrew alludes to the birthday). Never realizing era was a time of great patriotism History reveals that ancient the importance among the Jews. They had defeated people celebrated birthdays with the determined efforts of Antiochus great pomp and ceremony, as is also of understanding Epiphanes to Hellenize them. Their recorded in the sacred Scriptures. obstinate patriotism at about this However, Almighty Yahweh has the basics of same time forced the mighty Roman actually legislated against the obser- Bible study army to furl and lower its banners vance of birthdays. He has declared before entering Jerusalem. If Rome in Isaiah 65:11-12, “But you that which are to be had ordered a tax census in the forsake Yahweh, that forget my middle of winter, they would have holy mountain [His governmental found in the Old been faced with a bitter insurrection rule], that prepare a table for and violent rebellion among their Fortune, and that fill up mingled Testament, the Jewish subjects. Simple logic will wine to Destiny [Hebrew is mene]; average person lead the thinking person to realize I will destine [Hebrew is manithi that such a tax census could best from the name of the deity meni] reads over some be conducted with the least amount you to the sword, and you shall of disturbance around one of their all bow down to the slaughter; of the most religious holidays, when people are because when I called, you did obvious clues on the move anyway to attend the not answer; when I spoke, you did rites of worship. In addition, the fall not hear; but you did that which which would of the year, when the crops have just was evil in my eyes, and chose been harvested and the surplus sold, that in which I delighted not.” indicate with is when money would certainly be There was actually an ancient certainty on more plentiful to pay the taxes than Assyrian Mighty One who was called it would be in the dead of winter. Manu (Mene). He was worshiped which day our Never realizing the importance with drink offerings on birthdays Savior was born. of understanding the basics of Bible and other anniversaries. Undoubt- study which are to be found in the edly, the worship of Mene was the Old Testament, the average person occasion for the account in Daniel reads over some of the most obvious chapter 5, and the hand which clues which would indicate with wrote on the wall used an allusion flocks by night, Luke 2:8. During certainty on which day our Savior to this worship to predict the end of the winter months in Palestine (the was born. This day can be pinpointed Belshazzar’s kingdom when it wrote, Land of Israel), the weather often with accuracy on the scriptural cal- “Mene, Mene, Tekel, Upharsin.” becomes very severe. When the rainy To summarize, we must conclude season arrives, several weeks after endar and it occurs each year on this that there is no scriptural com- the Feast of Tabernacles (generally special day, although it will not be mandment to observe birthdays, in October or November), the flocks recognized on the Roman calendar but, in fact, it is displeasing to and herds are brought in for the which is in common use today. Almighty Yahweh when someone night, since it would not be pleasant In order to find the actual birth observes them. Incidentally, the for shepherds or animals to sleep date of the Messiah, we must begin usual cake and candles are also on the cold, wet ground. Actually, to read the chronology which is of- derived from pagan worship. Cakes December 25th corresponds to the fered by Luke chapter 1. Our first or cookies were offered in worship Feast of Dedication of John 10:22, and most important clue is to be to the “queen of heaven,” Jeremiah which occurred in winter, a time found in verse 5. Zachariah, the fa- 7:17-19. Candles appear to have when no shepherds would venture ther of John the Baptist, was a priest been symbols of phallic worship away from their homes and spend of the course of Abia (AbiYAH). and used on special occasions. The a night in the fields. The Apostle This means that he was a member lamps of Yahweh’s menorah were John tells us forthrightly that the of the priestly family of Abiyah, a fueled with oil. Feast of Dedication (Hanukkah) is descendant of Aaron. When King Was the birth date of our Savior in winter. David made his thorough prepara- actually on December 25? Your own A second fact, which should tions for the building of the temple, Bible, and also history, reveals that convince even the most skeptical in addition to acquiring the building it was not. When Yahshua the Mes- person, is the taxation which took materials, he also arranged for the siah was born the shepherds were in Joseph and Miriam to Bethlehem, orderly conduct of the sacrificial and the fields keeping watch over their Luke 2:1-5. Yahshua the Messiah worship services in the completed was born only about 170 years after sanctuary. He arranged to divide the

The Sacred Name Broadcaster, 11/2013 11 labor among the designated people during the latter part of Elizabeth’s in the tribe of Levi. Among his as- pregnancy and at the birth of the signments was the performance of child, Luke 1:56. The virgin Miriam’s the priestly duties which he divided remaining five or six months until among the 16 heads of the families This would the birth of Yahshua were spent in of Eleazar, and the 8 heads of the her own home in Nazareth. families of Ithamar. This is recorded assign His Since it was in the sixth month in 1 Chronicles 24. After the division begettal to about of the pregnancy of Elizabeth when of the priestly families had been the birth of the Messiah was an- completed, David selected, by lot, the the first day nounced to Miriam, the begettal of one family who was to be in charge the Messiah would have taken place of the temple worship one week dur- of the month just about exactly six months after ing the spring and summer months, of Tebeth, the begettal of John. This would and one week in the fall and winter assign His begettal to about the months of the year. Consequently, or around first day of the month of Tebeth, the remaining priests were relieved or around December 10th to 20th of duty at all other times, with the December 10th of our Roman calendar. The normal exception of their commanded at- to 20th of our gestation period of a human is 280 tendance at each one of the three days, bringing the birth date of the major feasts of Yahweh—Passover Roman calendar. Messiah to exactly the 15th day of and Unleavened Bread, Pentecost, the seventh scriptural month. Bible and Tabernacles, when all males chronologists have set this date of Israel are obligated to appear, variously from September 28th to Exodus 23:15-17, etc. These are October 3rd on our Roman calen- called the “pilgrim feasts” because, dar. Regardless which day one may for most people, travel is involved. Sivan. This was the time when select on the Roman calendar, the You may wish to read additional the angel of Yahweh predicted to day established on the scriptural information which is offered by the Zachariah that he would become calendar is the 15th day of the historian Josephus in Antiquities the father of a son and, as a sign of seventh scriptural month, the first of the Jews, Book 7, Chapter 14, assurance, he would become dumb, day of the Feast of Tabernacles. Sec. 7, in which he describes how unable to speak until after the Furthermore, the circumcision of each division or course of priests child was born, Luke 1:8-22. After Yahshua the Messiah would have began their service each Sabbath, the time of his service was over, he occurred on the Last Great Day of and continued to serve for eight returned to his own home in the hill the Feast, the eighth day. days until the end of the following country of Judah, Luke 1:39. Since Although I may be faced with the Sabbath, when the next course or he was aged we must allow several charge of working out this chronol- group had arrived. (Therefore, two days travel for this trip and so, we ogy on assumptions, the indicator groups were in the Temple to serve can conclude, that the conception which has been left by the Apostle on each Sabbath day.) of John took place after the 21st of John can hardly be called insignifi- Now that we have found a the month. cant. It is found in John 1:14, where starting point, we may begin to Now that we have established we read, “And the Word became count toward the birth date of our the time when John the Baptist flesh, and tabernacled[the Greek Savior. We must begin by count- was conceived, from this point of word here is translated erroneously ing the week following the days departure it will be easy to locate as dwelt] among us (and we be- of Unleavened Bread, beginning the birthday of the Messiah. Read- held his glory, glory as of the with the weekly Sabbath. Count- ing further in Luke chapter 1, we only begotten from the Father), ing through 7 weeks, we reach find that Elizabeth, John’s mother, full of grace and truth.” John the 8th week when the course of hid herself five months and, in the could have chosen different terms to Abiyah served. Zachariah would sixth month, the angel Gabriel present his thought had he wished have been serving with this group made a visit to Miriam (rather than to indicate “dwelt,” so it certainly of priests, the family of AbiYah. If Mary), the mother of the Messiah, to seems of uppermost ­significance that you are counting this with me on announce His birth, Luke 1:24-38. the word “tabernacled” was chosen, a scriptural calendar, you will find Note again that this was the sixth especially since the waymarkers lead that Zachariah’s ministering in month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy. Ap- us to this holy, commanded annual Jerusalem would take place from parently, Miriam intended to stay observance of Yahweh. around the 12th to the 19th day of three or four months with John’s In Colossians 2:16 we learn that the third scriptural month, called mother, most likely as a housekeeper the Holy Days are shadows of things

12 The Sacred Name Broadcaster, 11/2013 to come. Since a Hebrew baby was with scriptural Truth? I trust that Yahweh undertook this project in to be circumcised at the age of eight you will join me in a resounding cry 1981. This magnum opus is now in days, Genesis 17:9-14, this day of of rejection of these pagan customs its seventh printing. This volume, entering into the Covenant would as we witness this hidden Truth The Sacred Scriptures, Bethel correspond exactly to the Last Great with power to a lost and deceived Edition, is the culmination of more Day of the Feast, John 7:37 and world. (Concerning the decoration than five centuries of translation Leviticus 23:36. This Last Great of trees, have you ever considered work. The Assemblies of Yahweh Day is an extra special day on the the passage in Jeremiah 10:2-11?) scriptural calendar. It is called a joyfully presents this volume to you, solemn assembly in Numbers 29:35, our reader, as what we consider The Sacred Scriptures, leading to the definition of the He- the best translation of the Inspired Bethel Edition brew root Awtzar as restraint. It is Scriptures available in the world the day when our Savior revealed To fill the need for a conserva- today. After reading it we hope you that all men would have access to tive, scholarly Bible using the will agree. Why not acquire your the Holy Spirit (John 7:37-39), when sacred Names, the Assemblies of copy soon? all men (who so desire) will be liv- ing in righteousness, the symbol of circumcision, Galatians 6:15 and Romans 2:25-29. The sacrificial law of the Feast of Tabernacles, as found in Numbers 29:12-34, reveals that —Announcement— diminishing sacrifices were offered each day of the Feast until, finally, And she shall bring forth a son; on the Last Great Day, only minimal and you shall call his name sacrifices were presented, revealing that when someone had reached that last day, he should have achieved a Yahshua; type of spiritual perfection. for he shall save his people from their sins. The question is often asked, “In which year was the Savior born?” MATTHEW 1:21 History reveals that He must have been born earlier than 4 B.C.E., And behold, you shall conceive in your since this was the year that King womb, and bring forth a son, Herod died. Various conclusions can be reached concerning which year and shall call his name His birth actually occurred, from 7 to 5 B.C.E. Again, allow me to . reiterate that it is not imperative Yahshua LUKE 1:31 that we know the exact year since we are not commanded to observe His birthday. And when eight days were fulfilled for Each year at the Chr-stmas sea- circumcising him, his name was called son, the masses of contemporary society frantically observe a phan- , tom holiday. The holiday which they Yahshua are observing is not the birthday which was so called by the angel before of the genuine Messiah, but the he was conceived in the womb. celebration of the Roman Saturnalia and Brumalia, the day of natalis LUKE 2:21 solis invicti (birthday of the uncon- querable sun). Since we can prove And the Word became flesh, that the Messiah was not born at and tabernacled among us... the winter solstice, should we con- tinue to live a lie and observe a day JOHN 1:14 which has come down to us through paganism? Should we merge pagan customs, such as decorating a tree, the Santa Claus myth, the yule log,

The Sacred Name Broadcaster, 11/2013 13 Continued from page 9 had prospered them. And they commanded by Almighty Yahweh altar like the former one. And celebrated the rededication of the in His list of Holy Days in Leviti- they built the sanctuary and altar for eight days and offered cus 23. Yahshua the Messiah kept the interior of the temple and burnt offerings with joy, and of- those annual feast days of Yahweh, consecrated the courts. And they fered a sacrifice of deliverance especially the seven-day observance made new holy dishes and they and praise. And they decorated of the Feast of Tabernacles and the brought the lampstand and the the front of the temple with eighth, Last Great Day (John 7). altar of incense and the table gold crowns and small shields Today, even the Jewish au- into the temple. And they burned and rededicated the gates and thorities express concern about the incense on the altar, and lighted the priests’ quarters, and fitted commercialization of Hanukkah. the lamps on the lampstand, and them with doors. And there was Orthodox and Conservative rabbis in they lighted the temple. And they very great joy among the people, New York inveigh against the obvi- put the loaves of bread on the and the reproach the heathen ous paganism of the decorations and table and hung up the curtains, had cast upon them was wiped the lavish gifts. Nevertheless, the and completed all the work they out. And Judas and his broth- customs of the Christmas celebration had undertaken. ers and all the congregation continue to infiltrate Hanukkah. “And they arose early on the of Israel decreed that the days The True Worshiper seeks with twenty-fifth day of the ninth of the rededication of the altar all his heart and soul to exit from month, that is, the month of should be observed at their sea- the Babylonish system, Revelation Chislev, in the one hundred and son, every year, for eight days, 18:4. We keep the commandments of forty-eighth year, and offered beginning with the twenty-fifth Almighty Yahweh and cling closely sacrifice according to the Law of the month of Chislev, with to the Faith of Yahshua the Messiah, upon the new altar of burnt gladness and joy.” Revelation 12:17 and 14:12. Keep- offering which they had made. The rededication of the Temple ing the commandments of Yahweh At the time and on the day the was a memorable occasion. It is includes keeping holy His sacred heathen had polluted it, it was observed today as a strictly ­Jewish time of Leviticus 23. Because of the rededicated with songs and festival. Yahshua the Messiah also evident pagan contamination of all harps and lutes and cymbals. attended an observance at Jerusa- the winter holidays—both Christian And all the people fell on their lem, John 10:22-24. and Jewish—we avoid observing faces and blessed heaven which However, this observance was not them.

“Sanctify them in the truth: your word is truth.” (John 17:17)

Yahweh’s pure Word of Truth has the power to cut through ­distortions and put things into their proper perspective. The seventh printing of The Sacred Scriptures, Bethel Edition, is available for distribution. To obtain a copy of this ­superb Bible translation, write for current pricing information. Send your request to: Now Assemblies of Yahweh PO Box C available Bethel, PA 19507 on Kindle (717) 933-4518 www.assembliesofyahweh.com

14 The Sacred Name Broadcaster, 11/2013 Part tHREE The Creator’s Name This is the third in a series of radio messages on the Sacred Name origi- nally broadcast in 1966 and 1967 and in Layman’s Terms published July 1987.

The Saving Name—, that sinner and give him everlast- Paul exhorts the young minister Timothy in his second epistle (2 An Anchor Like a ing life through the Name of His only begotten Son, Yahshua, the Timothy 4:2) with the following Solid Rock Messiah of Israel. The repentant message: “Preach the word.” The individual must have faith in the only “word” that this young man And Elohim said to Moses, I “ mighty Being who alone can save. was to preach was the Word of the AM THAT I AM: and he said, In The sign whereby we can know Almighty Father in heaven, which this manner shall you say to the that He will save is contained in means the Old Testament He- children of Israel, I AM has sent the authenticity of the majestic and brew texts. This “word” is actually me to you. ” (Exodus 3:14). exclusive Name which Yahweh, our Yahweh’s instructions to regulate I wonder how many of the lis- Heavenly Father, calls Himself. mankind’s life, given to Israel from teners to this broadcast have ever This message is one of a series of their Mighty One. This Word is the given any thought to the numerous messages that I have entitled, “The Law that will govern the entire earth name passages in which the term Sacred Name and the Sacred Titles.” when the Kingdom of the Heavens appears in the Scriptures. It seems In the beginning of this series, I will be established here, just a few that almost any place where you sought to bring to you, the average short years from now. may care to open your Bible you layman, the importance and the Also in 2 Timothy 3:14-15 we will soon encounter a reference to meaning of this significant Name. read, “But remain in the things the revealed, personal Name of the It was my intention to do this by which you have learned and Almighty. Many readers, theologians employing the simple language of have been assured of, knowing included, must customarily skip our day, rather than in technical of whom you have learned them; right across these frequent, very terms which might confuse those and that from a babe you have conspicuous, references without unacquainted with them. known the sacred writings which fully realizing the importance of When we speak of the Sacred are able to make you wise to the terms. Name, we refer to the four let- salvation through faith which Yet this one doctrine is probably ters comprising this Name as they is in the Messiah Yahshua.” the most conspicuous and outstand- appear 6,823 times in the Old Here, again, we see that the ref- ing of any with which the sacred Testament Hebrew Bible. We must erence to the holy Scriptures points Scriptures deals. It appears like a appeal to the Hebrew Scriptures for directly toward the Old Testament unique thread that actually runs our precedent. These sacred Scrip- Hebrew Scriptures. The books that from the beginning to the end of tures constitute the basis of our comprise the volume that we know the Bible. This doctrinal thread in Faith. The original autographs (as today as the New Testament Scrip- the sacred Scriptures states that closely as we can return to them), tures were only then being written, although man has followed the and the documents in which they but the holy Scriptures (sacred wrong course of Satan, man may were handed down to us, appear writings), which the Apostle Paul come back to the True Creator if he in the language that the Almighty explained would be able to make is willing and repentant. However, spoke while communicating with Timothy wise unto salvation, were only Yahweh’s great Name will save His people Israel. known by him since he was a child.

The Sacred Name Broadcaster, 11/2013 15 Timothy had learned them from his the True Mighty One, Yahweh, of EH.” Pronounce it rapidly and it grandmother Lois and his mother His rightful reverence. All men will sounds—YAHWEH. Eunice, who were ethnic Jews. The call upon the True, revealed Name Also, little marks appear with liturgical language of the Jews is of the One to whom they must give which the modern Hebrew text of Hebrew! devotion as the King of the universe the Bible clarifies its pronunciation. It is imperative that we return to when He sits in their midst in the However, in the case of the Sacred the Hebrew Scriptures for precedent world-ruling city of Jerusalem. Name we must disregard these when we seek the instructions to I can readily show you this Sacred diacritical marks, or vowel points. lead us to salvation. Nowhere does Name as it has been recorded in the In the case of the Sacred Name, it any written Scripture tell us that Hebrew text for us. The recorded was given the vowel points of the the Almighty spoke to His people in letters in the Hebrew Scriptures term Adonai to cause people who any language except Hebrew, or that are called the Tetragrammaton read the Tetragrammaton to use this He revealed Himself to any people (meaning a four-letter word) by word instead of the letters accurately except Israel. As a matter of fact, we modern scholars. In the Hebrew written Yahweh. This grammatical kethiv-qere learn the following in Psalm 147:19- text we find that it is composed of technicality is called , yod, hay, waw 20, “He shows his word to Jacob, four letters: , and, meaning in Hebrew that it is written His statutes and his ordinances again, hay. It is interesting to note one way, but pronounced another. to Israel, He has not dealt so with any nation: And as for his ordinances they have not known The common, popular names for them. HalleluYah!” We also read in Psalm 135:3-4. “HalleluYah! the Almighty actually rob the For Yahweh is good: sing praises to his name; for it is pleasant. True Mighty One, Yahweh, of For Yah has chosen Jacob to His rightful reverence. himself and Israel for his own possession.” Those Israelite peoples spoke Hebrew. They could under- that Almighty Yahweh begins His Since the days of Alexander the stand Him when His emissaries (the Name with the smallest of the let- Great, who is said to have visited prophets) spoke His great words ters in the Hebrew alphabet—the the Temple of Jerusalem, the rabbis to them. They heard His Name yod. The Savior speaks of this yod of Israel have taught that it was in the Hebrew tongue, just as the (which in the Sephardic Hebrew a violation of the third command- Apostle Paul recorded the Name of should be pronounced yothe) in ment to speak the authentic name the Savior in Acts 26:14, when he Matthew 5:18, “Truly I say to you, of the holy One of Israel and that was converted in the experience he Till heaven and earth pass away a substitute should be employed. had on the Damascus Road. It may one yothe or one tittle shall in Their motive appeared plausible; interest you to know that all of the no wise pass away from the law, however, the end results of this earth will again return to speaking till all things be accomplished.” tampering with the Word of Al- this holy language of Hebrew when The yothe (yod) is the smallest let- mighty Yahweh were disastrous, Almighty Yahweh returns to the ter of the Hebrew alphabet, and the because knowledge of the Sacred people a pure lip, or language, that tittle is a small ornament which is Name was almost obliterated from they may all call upon the Name attached to a letter. the face of this earth. However, the of Yahweh to serve Him with one This word yod, hay, waw, and third commandment on which their consent. We read this prophecy in hay, which comprises the Sacred belief was based reads this way in Zephaniah 3:9. Why not check this Name of the Almighty, can be ac- a literal word-for-word translation: passage in your own Bibles? curately transliterated into the “You shall not make wrong use The prophet Zechariah tells us English language, or into any lan- of the Name of Yahweh your that Yahweh will be King over all guage which we may speak. The Elohim; for Yahweh will not the earth. In that day, there shall English equivalent of the letters leave unpunished the man who be one Yahweh and His Name one, are a “y” for the yod, an “h” for the misuses His Name.” The word Zechariah 14:9. No longer will many hay having the sound of “ah,” a “w” loshaw, which is translated vanity, names be used to call upon the for the waw with the sound of the actually means to bring to nothing Almighty as is the worldly custom double “u”, and, again, the hay at or destroy. Our Father in heaven today. There will no longer be any the end of the word with the sound does not want us to utter this great worship in a name which men choose of “eh”, because of the masculinity name for vanity, or for a vain oath to to revere. The common, popular of the subject. All these letters put desecrate it. The Scripture demands names for the Almighty actually rob together would sound “EE AH OO that we revere the One who bears

16 The Sacred Name Broadcaster, 11/2013 it and worship in this Name! is my name forever; and this is Holy One of Israel. Turn with me to the best expla- my memorial to all generations.” In closing this part of the se- nation of the Sacred Name in the Can you more clearly comprehend ries, I would like to point out the entire sacred Scriptures as Almighty this great thought from the inspired words of the psalmist in Psalm Yahweh declares His Name to His Word of Almighty Yahweh? He is 135:13, “Your name, O Yahweh, servant Moses. We read in Exodus about to call His people Israel out endures forever; your memorial 3 that Yahweh called Moses to be of a life of bondage in the land of name, O Yahweh, throughout all His servant, His emissary, to go Egypt, which actually symbolizes a generations.” Now is the time to to the children of Israel, to inform sinful state. The first thing He does prove to yourself the authenticity them that He would soon release is to speak His Name to His servant of this revealed Sacred Name and them from their enslavement in the Moses. He tells His servant Moses to revere and trust in it as did the land of Egypt. Moses, in verse 13, that when the people ask him con- ...Be- psalmist. counters with this question: “ cerning who shall accomplish this hoId, when I come to the children great miracle and release them from of Israel, and shall say to them, their oppressive burdens, Moses is WHAT IS THE The Elohim of your fathers has to answer by giving the Name of the sent me to you; and they shall say Almighty, which is His memorial Messiah’s Name? to me, What is his name? What The Sacred Name YAHWEH is By Elder Jacob O. Meyer ing a way to circumvent having to forever throughout all generations. possibly the most consistent doctrine use the True Hebrew Name for the permeating the Scriptures, with the transparent to the Bible student Messiah, revealing their hereditary shall I say to them? possible exception of the importance as he recalls that, throughout the anti-Semitism. ” In verse 14, of keeping the Law of Yahweh. Ap- inspired Scriptures, the word shem This Name cannot then be merely parently, many of the denominations (name) is always SINGULAR when of ch-rchianity concur with this New Testament referring to the Almighty. In ad- fi nding, as their literature reveals. Inspired in Hebrew we find the answer which was given dition, Psalm 83:18 and Proverbs The lack of quarrel with this issue 30:4, among a host of others, can One of the fi rst challenges which a name which the Hebrews called is so obvious that, at times, we have be called forth to prove conclusively is hurled at the Sacred Name be- And Elohim said almost anticipated some of the writ- that there is only one Name for the liever is that the New Testament by the Almighty. “ ers of the articles to be knocking Almighty to be found throughout the was written in Greek originally, on the doors of the Assemblies of their Mighty One. It cannot be Bible, although He does have many and, therefore, the name “J-sus” is Yahweh at any moment. descriptive titles. Why not check acceptable for common use. They to Moses, I AM THAT I AM, and While religious writers may agree the literature of your denomination even attach the misnomer “inspired” that the Heavenly Father’s Name is and see their stand on the Sacred when they speak of the Greek New the name of only a tribal mighty Yahweh, they usually invent some Name doctrine? Watch for candid Testament. As we have shown in this convenient strategy to avoid using he said, In this manner shall you admissions about the veracity of publication, and in the other book- it. One method of circumventing the Sacred Name, and then scruti- lets we print, scholarship will not the issue points out that we do not one. It cannot be deleted from the nize carefully the transparent and support such a claim. If you have not know how to pronounce it. But this frail arguments against using it in as yet seen or considered the other say to the children of Israel I AM objection can be dispatched readily. worship. side of the argument, why not send Our constant research is unearthing for our free booklet right now? It is conclusive proof that we can indeed Word. It cannot be translated into called “Exploding the Inspired know how to pronounce His Name, has sent me to you. That Annoying Name— GREEK New Testament Myth!” ” Here we have among which Provingis the statement in the Yahshua! There’s no cost or other obligation. the Encyclopedia Judaica, Article another name. No other name can “God, Names of”: “The true pronun- It is the Savior’s Hebrew Name ciation of the name YHWH was that really annoys and angers most Is It J-sus? the answer from the Almighty to never lost. Several early Greek of the ch-rch members, however. You be substituted for it. It is the True writers of the Christian Church need do nothing more than begin After the universal argument that testify that theSACRED name was pro- using the Savior’s Name, Yahshua the New Testament was originally the question Moses asked in verse nounced ‘Yahweh.”’ Isaiah 52:6, the Messiah, and immediately, the inspired to be written in the Greek “Therefore my people shall know average ch-rch member will bristle language has been dealt such a Name which has endured the test of my name: therefore they shall and become indignant. Just what is devastating blow by scholarship, sev- know in that day that I am he the source of this ingrained resent- eral denominations have “gnashed 13. The Almighty tells Moses that that does speak; behold, it is I.” ment? Could it be that they do not upon us with their teeth,” much as Another stratagem,NAME which is em- wish to learn that they have been happened with the early apostles. time, and it will exist forever. The ployed by various denominations in deceived in trusting in a name which Several crucial problems are pre- the meaning of His Name is I am a determined effort to avoid strict holds no salvation? Possibly, they re- sented by this repudiation and obedience to the Word of Yahweh, alize that their position is precarious can best be posed in the following Almighty’s Name will always endure proposes thatFrom there are many Yourwhere their salvation is concerned, questions. Since it is provable that that I am names for the Almighty and that unless they can prove that it is ac- there was no consonantal “J” sound . not merely one Name is enough to ceptable to the Almighty to use the in the English language before 1565 satisfy His magnifi cent nature. But common name J-sus for the Savior. when it was created by a printer the test of time, and it will be the this fabricatedBible objection is totally So, they desperately begin fabricat- named Gille Beys, how was the In the Hebrew text, this term one solid rock to which man must appears as eyeh asher eyeh and it by Elder Jacob O. Meyer I will be what I will be I anchor His faith for eternal salva- means or Why do the members of the ASSEMBLIES OF YAHWEH place such heavy emphasis on a Name? Is it merely to be different, or controversial? Do we merely try to draw men after ourselves for the purpose of forming yet tion. It is the one stamp of renown another splinter religious group? Could it be for individual aggrandizement? will become what I will become. In The members of the ASSEMBLIES OF YAHWEH have proven the importance of the Sacred Name to them- selves. You can do the same. By perusing a concordance, you can personally check each instance where the which tells the world that there is majestic Name of our Heavenly Father appears in the Hebrew Scriptures. You will fi nd, upon checking, that the Tetragrammaton, the four-letter word that stands for the Name and other words, “I will be what I will appears about 7,000 times (6,823 to be exact) is usually translated the l-rd in the King James text. Occasion- ally, it is translated g-d, which is then rendered in small capitals. a True and Living Mighty One, and You may also check to see what such eminent Bible translators as Moffatt, Rotherham, Lamsa, and others be because I exist; therefore, I am have to say about the Sacred Name. For instance, I once had occasion to speak with Dr. George Lamsa. In reference to the Tetragrammaton, this regardless how horribly sinful our renowned Bible translator stated, “That is YAHWEH. It is the original name. All others were added later.” Additionally, you might check any good dictionary or encyclopedia in your own home under the heading “G-d” responsible for the power to exist.” or “L-rd.” The writer of the preface of the Complete Bible, Dr. J. M. Powis Smith, writes in reference to the Sacred world may become, we can count Name: “Anyone, therefore who desires to retain the fl avor of the original text has but to read ‘Yahweh’ Each person exists because the wherever he sees L-rd or G-d.” Since the translators are in universal agreement that YAHWEH is more cor- rect than the other names and titles employed in translating the Name of our Heavenly Father, and that this is upon this great spirit Being, whose His rightful Name which appears in the original Hebrew text, let us begin immediately to read it into the text Creator has willed that you exist, when we encounter the place where it should rightfully appear. Let us look into the Bible together and answer some important questions which arise. Please take your own Bible and read these Scriptures for yourself so that you may begin to understand just why the brethren of the but the Almighty is different, since Name is Yahweh, to deliver us. For ASSEMBLIES OF YAHWEH obstinately insist upon the correct, revealed Name of our Heavenly Father. © Copyright 1983 Assemblies of Yahweh, Bethel, PA 19507, All Rights Reserved no one and nothing external causes obedience to His Covenant, He will the Heavenly Father to exist. He is adopt us as His children and grant us eternal life in the soon-to-be es- the Eternal One, and we are mor- Why not write in for the published tals. Yahweh is the First Cause, tablished Kingdom of the heavens literature on proving the Sacred and humans are the object of His upon this earth. creative ability. Yahweh can create Today, our Father in heaven, Name, which we offer free of life; conversely, humans cannot. Yahweh, offers this same gift to charge to all who request it? This clause, eyeh asher eyeh, all who hear this message. It’s up Write to Assemblies of Yahweh, comprises the source from which to you to begin now to prepare for PO Box C, Bethel, PA 19507. this eternal life. Why not prove this the Name Yahweh is derived. We Write in without delay—today! read in the following verse, Exodus Sacred Name to yourself now and Order the items—Yahweh’s 3:15, “And Elohim said moreover learn to trust it as we do? The time to Moses. In this manner shall is short! Procrastination may mean Witnesses, What is the Name you say to the children of Israel, your eternal death! Why not come of the Heavenly Father? What Yahweh, the Elohim of your fa- out of your bondage of sin today? is the Messiah’s Name? and thers, the Elohim of Abraham, Begin as did the children of Israel Proving the Sacred Name From of Isaac, and the Elohim of with the doctrine of the True Name Your Bible. Jacob, has sent me to you: this of our Heavenly Father Yahweh, the

The Sacred Name Broadcaster, 11/2013 17 By Elder Jacob O. Meyer

used as a foundational text to prove Are you beginning to comprehend Question: What this doctrine is John, chapter 3. Let a little more clearly the concept us examine this passage carefully that Yahshua the Messiah tried to does it mean to determine what it actually says; convey to Nicodemus? He was telling then, let us compare it to other Nicodemus that he would be born to be “born related Scriptures which set forth from above [anew from above]. In- the explanation given by the Bible terestingly, this same word anothen again”? and harmonize all of them so that is used in verse 31 of John chapter we may acquire a broader, more 3, and there it has been translated When are we accurate, perspective. as from above. We must take these In John 3:3, Yahshua the Messiah variations in translation into care- explained to Nicodemus, “...Truly, ful consideration to broaden our born again? truly, I say to you, Except one perspective. is born anew, he cannot see the ~New York Again, please take special note of kingdom of Yahweh.” this fact, because it is most crucial You will notice here in this verse to our understanding and reveals The born-again doctrine to which that two words are crucial to our another occasional inconsistency you refer is very prominently taught complete understanding of the text. that crept into the King James in evangelical Chr-stianity today. The first word is the Greek term translation. Therefore, occasionally Widespread interest in this doctrine gennethe. It is the third singular, a more modern version of the Bible has grown and spread subsequent first aorist, subjunctive passive form is to be preferred. to the expansion of religious fun- of the Greek verb gennao. Perhaps one of the best render- damentalism and its widespread The second term that is crucial ings of this verse into the English popularity. Evangelical Chr-stians to our understanding of the text language has been accomplished in believe that one is born again when is the Greek word anothen. This the Charles B. Williams transla- he has repented, has been baptized, word specifically meansfrom above, tion, “[Yahshua] answered him, and has received the Holy Spirit. although it has been rendered by I most surely say to you, no one They insist that they are born again some translators as anew or again can ever see the Kingdom of at that very moment even though (as in the Authorized Version). [Yahweh], unless he is born from they continue to exist in their fleshly The Arndt and Gingrich Greek- above.” Consequently, it is easy to bodies. Evangelical fundamentalism English Lexicon of the New perceive that the new birth is from teaches that this born-again experi- Testament informs us that the above, from the Almighty Heavenly ence makes one a child of the Most word has the primary meaning of Father, from the very heavens. High immediately and that all of the from above, but offers as a secondary Let us continue on now with requirements for salvation have been consideration the adjunct nuance remainder of John chapter 3. Un- completed with nothing remaining to of meaning, anew. The root of this doubtedly the same question may be accomplished by the individual. word has been traced to the word enter your mind that Nicodemus The passage of Scripture that is ano, meaning above or upwards. expressed in verse 4, “How can a

18 The Sacred Name Broadcaster, 11/2013 man be born when he is old? Can a human being and then following shall sound, and the dead shall he enter a second time into his our education and development of be raised incorruptible, and mother’s womb, and be born?” spiritual character throughout our we shall be changed. For this Yahshua answered the question lives, learning to be like the Most corruptible must put on incor- in verse 5 when He explained, “... High Heavenly Father Yahweh, to ruption, and this mortal must Truly, truly, I say to you, Except be changed into the likeness of our put on immortality. But when one is born of water and the resurrected Messiah. this corruptible shall have put Spirit, he cannot enter into the Yahshua the Messiah continues on incorruption, and this mortal kingdom of Yahweh.” Please note by explaining just exactly what He shall have put on immortality, the omission of the indefinite articles means in John 3:6-7. “That which then the saying shall come to (a, an) as we read from the correct is born of the flesh IS flesh; and pass that is written, Death is English translation, since they do that which is born of the Spirit swallowed up in victory. Oh not appear in Greek. The Aramaic IS spirit. Marvel not that I said death, where is your victory? version, however, does attest to to you, You must be born anew Oh death, where is your sting?” the term spirit with the attached [from above].” (1 Corinthians 15:52-55). definite article. Yahshua the Messiah continues to Clearly, we are taught that we are Here, then, we learn an imme- explain that when someone is born not born again when we are baptized diate lesson. In order to be born as a human, that is what he is. He and receive the Holy Spirit as a gift from above, we will need to fulfill is a human being, nothing more. into our hearts. We are given merely some requirements. First of all, we Flesh reproduced in its own likeness a small portion of the Holy Spirit must repent of our previous sins is flesh. However, when someone is that must be thenceforth nurtured and be immersed in a symbolic born from above, when he is born and edified. We are born from above act of cleansing into the Name of of the Spirit, he becomes spirit. He at the resurrection of the dead, born Yahshua the Messiah (Acts 2:38). receives a spirit body at that time. to eternal life. Then, Yahshua the Then, we will receive the down pay- (See 1 Corinthians 15:44.) You and Messiah goes on to explain this ment (a small portion, arrabon in I are not spirit. Nowhere in the en- procedure even more thoroughly in Greek, which is actually a Hebrew tire Bible do we find that a human John 3:8. “The wind blows where or Aramaic loan word) of the Holy being is spirit. He has been given it will, and you hear the voice of Spirit. “Who has sealed us, and the breath of life (neshamah), which it, but know not from where it gave us the earnest [down payment is sometimes called spirit; however, comes, and to where it goes: so (Greek—arrabona)] of the spirit in to be born of the spirit means to be is every one that is born of the our hearts,” (2 Corinthians 1:22). given a spirit body, to take on the Spirit.” The description given by Please see also 2 Corinthians 5:5. change from flesh to spirit, at the Yahshua the Messiah is of a person However, the new birth does not resurrection. who has been born from above and occur the moment we are baptized. Presently, we are flesh and given a spiritual body. He becomes It actually occurs much later, as we blood, a created being with inherent like the wind. One cannot see the shall see. limitations. We have received only wind, but you can hear it. You can We might also consider the the earnest, or the down payment feel it passing by as it caresses fact that we cannot enter into the (pledge), of the fullness of the Holy your cheek, or see its effects when Kingdom of Yahweh (meaning, Spirit in our hearts. We have not it blows in strength. You can hear also, His family), except we are been changed into spirit bodies. The the murmur of the breeze through initially born in human birth and, change into the spiritual body will the trees, but you cannot see a then, later are born from above by occur at the resurrection. Please physical appearance. The wind is the Spirit of Yahweh. Almighty notice the time sequence in which invisible. You can perceive the ef- Yahweh has outlined a way for us this will occur. “In a moment, in fects of strong wind, a storm, but you to enter His family. It is through the twinkling of an eye, at the cannot actually see the wind itself. an adoption process, being born as last trumpet: for the trumpet Yahshua the Messiah explains that Clearly, we are taught that we are not born again when we are baptized and receive the Holy Spirit as a gift into our hearts. We are given merely a small portion of the Holy Spirit that must be thenceforth nurtured and edified. We are born from above at the resurrection of the dead, born to eternal life.

The Sacred Name Broadcaster, 11/2013 19 everyone who is born of the Spirit (meaning born from above) will be like the wind. It is obvious that all human be- ings are flesh and blood. We humans have a physical form visible to the eyes of another person. We are NOT INVISIBLE to the human eye. You can find an illustration of spirit crea- tures in 2 Kings 6:15-17. Please see also Hebrews 1:7. Although SPIRIT BEINGS CANNOT BE SEEN BY HUMAN EYES, they exist none- theless. The difference between angelic beings who are spirit and those who are born from above is that the angels are created, while HUMANS ARE ADOPTED into the family of the Most High. Now let us consider several other important points. First of all, when we search the sacred Scriptures, we can note the account of one human being who was born anew The root of the Hebrew name Adam from above. That individual was Yahshua the Messiah. The Apostle is defined as red clay or earth. Paul makes this quite clear in 1 Corinthians 15:20-22, “But now has the Messiah been raised from the dead, the first fruits of them Note especially verses 47 and 48. condition. The root of the Hebrew name Adam that are asleep. For since by man Now let us notice carefully what is defined as red clay or earth. He came death, by man came also Paul taught in Colossians 1:15, a and his descendants were created to the resurrection of the dead. For passage which refers to Yahshua have physical bodies made from the Who is the image as in Adam all die, so also in the Messiah. “... dust of the earth. We have exactly of the invisible Yahweh, the first- the Messiah shall all be made this physical appearance. We are born of all creation alive.” Consequently, the Apostle ....” Yahshua flesh and blood. Interestingly, the the Messiah was the firstborn from Paul shows us the great difference word blood in Hebrew (dahm) is a between the physical Adam and the the dead. He is the One who leads cognate to the name Adam. the way for His Assembly to enter resurrected Yahshua the Messiah. Yahshua the Messiah also fol- into the very family of the Most He explains this aspect more lowed this pathway to a new birth. High. He was the first member of thoroughly in 1 Corinthians 15:45- He was made in the likeness of a So it is also written, The the human family to be born anew, 49, “ physical Adam, as a flesh and blood from above. Yahweh the Father in first man Adam became a living human being. However, He was dif- heaven, a spirit Being, is invisible; soul. The last Adam became a ferent from Adam in that He did not life-giving spirit. However; that sin when He was tempted by Satan therefore, to be given resurrection, is not first which is spiritual, the Devil. His character was flaw- life from above will also make invis- but that which is natural; then less. He faithfully followed the way ible those who receive it. that which is spiritual. The first of Yahweh’s righteous command- Let us notice also what was man is of the earth, earthy: the ments; therefore, He could offer recorded by the Apostle John in And from Yahshua second man is of the heavens. As His life as an atonement sacrifice Revelation 1:5. “ is the earthy, such are they also to cleanse the human family from the Messiah, the faithful witness, that are earthy: and as is the their sins. He fulfilled this mission the firstborn of the dead, and the heavenly, such are they also that by dying upon the tree of Calvary. ruler of the kings of the earth. are heavenly. And as we have He was buried, but He rose again To him that loves us, and loosed borne the image of the earthy, the third day. Forty days later He us from our sins by his blood.” A we shall also bear the image of ascended On High to sit at the comparison of Colossians 1:18 and the heavenly.” right hand of Yahweh in a glorified Revelation 1:5 will prove that the

20 The Sacred Name Broadcaster, 11/2013 Greek word prototokos appears in hand on me, saying, “Fear not; I am Holy Spirit, HAVE NOT BEEN both verses. It should not have the first and the last, and the living BORN AGAIN. They have been been translated begotten, but, one; I was even dead, but, behold, BEGOTTEN again—not yet born rather, firstborn. Yahshua the Mes- I am living for the ages of the ages; from above. A period of growth in siah is indeed the firstborn from the and I have the keys of death and character development is necessary. dead. We can notice this confirmed of Hades.” This growth comprises the education by Romans 8:29, “For whom he The description of Yahshua the of the mind and the development foreknew, he also foreordained Messiah is of a Being who holds of a righteous character similar to to be conformed to the image of great power. Such a Body is glori- that of the Most High, our Heav- His Son, that he might be the ous to behold. It demonstrates the enly Father. Our earthly education firstborn among many brethren.” superiority of the spiritual body over continues on until the time of our Again, the word prototokos has the physical. Yahshua was the first death (or the Second Coming), which been correctly translated firstborn individual who has had two births: becomes a necessary transition from in this passage. The same word the first as a human being, and the physical to the spiritual body. (Greek—proto, first; tokos, born) the second birth to be made into Our natural body is planted in the is also employed in Hebrews 1:6. the spiritual body that will exist grave, or should we be alive when Clearly, then, Yahshua the Messiah forever, which is the blessing from Yahshua returns, it will be supernat- is the only Being in this universe the Most High. If we are faithful, urally changed. All of those chosen who has received a second birth we shall receive this changed body ones who are in the grave will rise from above. He was born first as from above also, when the Messiah again with a marvelous, powerfully flesh and blood, of a human mother; returns to establish the Kingdom magnificent, spiritual body, while whereas later, He was resurrected of Yahweh and the resurrection of those who are alive will be changed from the dead and given a new life, the just takes place. He will bring instantaneously and will also rise a spiritual body from above by the with Him this spiritual body (2 to meet Yahshua the Messiah in Heavenly Father. Corinthians 5:2). the air. Those people will then be “Behold what manner of love The Bible even has a description adopted, taken into the Kingdom, or the Father has bestowed upon of the person who has been born the family, of the Most High. They us, that we should be called the second time. This person has will be sealed with His Name. They children of Elohim; and we are. received the spiritual body. He has will at that time receive the family For this cause the world knows been changed by a resurrection Name of the Most High Heavenly us not, because it knew him not. Father to use as their own, forever from the dead. He has been given Beloved, now we are children of immortality. Yahshua the Messiah and ever. Remember, the Name Elohim, and it is not yet made Yahweh is derived from the Hebrew is the only human who was born manifest what we shall be. We anew, from above. Let us read to- verb of existence, in its present and know that, if he shall be mani- future (tense), which means that gether from Revelation 1:12-18 in fested, we shall be like him; for the Benjamin Wilson translation those who are granted the right to we shall see him even as he is. use it will become immortal. found in the The Emphatic Dia- And everyone that has this hope “And I turned to see the voice Are you planning for that marvel- glott. set on him purifies himself, even which was speaking with me; and ous experience of being resurrected, as he is pure,” having turned I saw seven golden (1 John 3:1-3). to become a part of the family of Lampstands, and in the Midst of Obviously, then, those who have spirit creatures who will rule this the Lampstands one like to a Son of repented have been baptized in universe? It is a free gift from the Man, invested with a garment to the the water of cleansing and have Most High, but you must qualify to foot, and girded about at the breasts received the down payment of the receive it. Begin now to learn! with a golden Girdle; and His head and hairs White as white wool, as snow; and His eyes as a Flame of If we are faithful, we shall receive Fire; and His feet like to fine Brass glowing with fire, as in a Furnace; this changed body from above and His voice as the Voice of many Waters; and having in His Right also, when the Messiah returns to Hand seven Stars; and out of His mouth proceeding a sharp two-edged establish the Kingdom of Yahweh broad Sword; and His appearance as the sun shines in his strength. and the resurrection of the just And when I saw Him, I fell at His feet as dead; but He placed His right takes place.

The Sacred Name Broadcaster, 11/2013 21 The Sacred Name Broadcaster PERIODICAL Bethel, PA 19507 Reading, PA

Biblical Ecclesiastical Assembly Administration by Elder Jacob O. Meyer

By harmonizing the Bible from Genesis to Revelation, the Assemblies of Yahweh has em- braced a simple, basic method of Bible research. Returning to the basic commands of the Old Testament (which is the basis of our Faith), we can perceive how Yahweh intends His modern- day Assembly to be organized. Elder Jacob O. Meyer leads us in a study of Assembly government by looking at the com- mandments in the Old Testament, the Assembly in the wilderness, and then progressing through history to understand how Yahweh’s True As- sembly on earth should be, and has always been, administered. This study shows that in the time of the Mes- siah and during the era of His Assembly, Yahweh the Father and Yahshua the Son did not change (Malachi 3:6 and Hebrews 13:8). This duo—the Father and the Son—continue down to this very day to direct every aspect of the organization founded by the Messiah almost two millennia ago. For current pricing information on how to obtain your copy of this new informative study on Assembly Administration, write to: Assemblies of Yahweh P.O. Box C Bethel, PA 19507

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