In this week’s lesson, Ross begins with Matthew 5:17-20 and focuses on the phrase, “whoever does and teaches the least of the commandments shall be called great….”

So, to do and to teach the commandments is a Good thing!  Well this week will prove to be quite good since this week’s torah portion contains more commandments that any other torah reading - 72 in all!

7 texts from this week’s torah lesson can be found in 12 passages in the new testament.

One of the primary points that Ross draws from the lesson today is the strict understanding of marriage held by Yeshua (See Matthew 5:31 and 19:1-9). Divorce, while permitted by Moses in the Torah was an accomodation due to the hardness of hearts, but was not part of the original design.

Ross also teaches on the ancient Levirate Marriage (Deuteronomy 25:5ff).

Ross also taught during this lesson that the enemies of Yeshua made certain allegations against him based upon a reading from this week’s torah portion.  In Matthew 11:16-19 / Luke 7:34, Yeshua says that there are some who refer to him as a glutton and a drunkard. Some have used this to discuss whether or not Yeshua drank wine. In this lesson, Ross shows that the charge may have had little if anything to do with the diet of Yeshua.  See for instance the strange law found in Deuteronomy 21:18-21. Accusers were saying that Jesus was rebellious!

Also in this week’s torah lesson we learn that it is never a bad day to do good.  See for instance Deuteronomy 22:1-4.  The language is quite instructive when considering the heart of the torah.  Do not hide yourself…we are told, when you notice someone in need.

From this point, we read and discussed the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37).

Indeed the Torah teaches “justice for all” - Deuteronomy 24:17-18.

In the Torah Reading that contains the most commandments, it is interesting to note that kindness to animals and those in need find a place.

The Torah truly represents a plan for a perfect world of peace and harmony, a blueprint for God’s plan of bringing heaven on earth.

The audio file of this week’s lesson is not yet available.  Check back later.