In this week\u2019s Torah portion, a list of various vessels for the Tabernacle is presented. One vessel which has become strongly associated with Israel, perhaps more than the others, is the Menorah. According to Jewish tradition, the Menorah represents illumination. In other words, the Menorah reminds Israel that worship is man\u2019s response to encountering divine revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
From this perspective, worship is not intended for those who do not know HaShem, but rather is a response to revelation within a covenantal relationship with Him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In the Parasha one reads:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201c\u2026for the six branches that go forth from the Menorah.\u201d
Exodus 25:35<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Nothing in Scripture is arbitrary. Therefore, one must ask why the Menorah has six branches. In Hebrew numerology, the number six is associated with grace. Man, who is depraved, has no ability to turn to G-d by himself. He is in need of revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The sovereign G-d is under no obligation to grant revelation. When HaShem does reveal Himself, it is an expression of His grace.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
There are two forms of revelation: natural revelation and special revelation. Natural revelation includes creation. Special revelation includes Scripture, the testimony of believers, and miracles, such as HaShem speaking directly to one\u2019s heart.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Man, lost in sin and separated from G-d, can through natural revelation conclude that G-d exists, that He is a G-d of order, and that he himself is separated from Him. However, only through special revelation can a person come under conviction of sin and repent. For salvation to result from that repentance, the Gospel must be heard and received.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
How should one understand man\u2019s response to the Gospel?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A man\u2019s response should never be viewed as a work or as contributing to the means of salvation. G-d provides everything necessary for salvation. Therefore, when someone receives the Gospel, he is not the object of praise; G-d alone is worthy of all glory.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Nevertheless, a response is required.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Some argue that even man\u2019s response is entirely a work of G-d. Scripture states:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cNo one is able to come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him.\u201d
John 6:44<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cNo one is able to come to Me unless it has been granted to him by My Father.\u201d
John 6:65<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The distinction is this: although HaShem must enable an individual, such enabling does not force him. G-d\u2019s grace is not irresistible in the sense of removing human responsibility.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In theological matters, there is a danger of emphasizing certain verses while neglecting others. Consider Revelation 3:20:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cBehold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone should hear My voice and open the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This verse clearly demonstrates that Messiah initiates through revelation, yet the individual bears responsibility to respond. The use of the subjunctive mood reflects possibility and condition. There is a real possibility to hear, which in biblical language often implies obedience, and to open the door.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Yeshua attaches a promise to a response.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
That HaShem is the Author and Finisher of our faith does not eliminate human participation in the experience of salvation. The work of salvation belongs entirely to G-d. Yet for salvation to take place in an individual\u2019s life, he must surrender to HaShem\u2019s work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It is without Scriptural foundation to claim that if one must respond to G-d\u2019s grace, salvation thereby becomes partially man\u2019s work. Such a claim is comparable to someone who owes one million dollars, possesses nothing to repay it, and then asserts he contributed to the payment because he agreed to allow another to pay the full amount.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In conclusion, when we see the Menorah, let us remember the Grace of G-d which He extends to all who are willing to hear His voice.<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
In de Torah-lezing van deze week wordt een lijst gepresenteerd van verschillende gebruiksvoorwerpen voor de tabernakel. E\u00e9n van deze voorwerpen, 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de Torah-lezing van deze week wordt een lijst gepresenteerd van verschillende gebruiksvoorwerpen voor de tabernakel. 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