Searching for direction in a whirlwind of opinions

[dave]

I should be getting the opportunity to go home during Pesach. There is not a large Jewish population where I live, so there aren't any major Messianic congregations in my area. There is a small congregation about half an hour away, and I've been in email contact with their pastor. I was hoping to be able to experience my first Seder. Between my communication with him, reading this message board, praying and reading my Tanakh, I'm confused. There seems to be about 100 different opinions on just about everything, and everyone will tell you that they're right based on various arguments and/or scripture. I would really like to find someone to mentor me as I take this journey, and there are plenty that seem to be willing, but I can't seem to tell which makes more sense, as they all make some sense at some point.

This is turning out to be a difficult journey, as I have a gentile wife, and we are unsure how our family comes into play with all of this. I asked the gentleman about my family, and part of his response was this,

"Too find out more about Messianic Jewishness, go to the AMC (Association of Messianic Congregations) web site. It will explain what we believe and why. The AMC was formed because there is a lot of deception and such a need to be completely Biblical. The other associations have some Bible doctrine errors. Don't get me wrong, there are a lot of wonderful brothers and sisters in them and out there, but there is also a lot of non-Biblical practices and beliefs. That is why the AMC was formed.

Examples of error:Some groups still believe some of the Mosaic Law practices are in effect and/or just being a good Jewish person will get you saved apart from Yeshua/Jesus. Then there is the 'Hashivenu' ('restore') movement that starts out 'ok' then goes off into left field from clear Bible teaching.

We are to discern what is going on, but we mostly just concentrate on the 'real deal' of the Word, and don't waste time on all the fringe stuff."

It didn't really answer my question, but actually created more. I do know that Yeshua is the Way the Truth and the Life, and no man shall know the Father except through Him. That part doesn't confuse me, but what is the "Hashivenu" movement? And I'm not sure if he is trying to tell me that he thinks all of the Mosaic Laws are not in effect, or not.

He is local and therefore easier to access. Any opinions would be appreciated, as my family may be sharing Pesach with him. I just don't know how to tell if I can trust him or not in helping me along my journey.

Shalom,
Dave

[Mark]

Hi Dave,

First, I'd like to suggest that you get used to a wide range of varying opinions. It is the Greek Church modus operandi to suppress any position that disagrees with the current reigning authority. It is the Hebraic style to invite dialogue between a number of opinions and allow reason direct the hearer's course, trusting the Spirit of Adonai to guide us into truth.

If you and I disagree, when we are done you have either convinced me that I am wrong or strengthened me in my position. Either way we both win. The difference is that it is not a challenge to my intellectual superiority when one confronts my beliefs and challenges my positions since we are all but students of the Most High. This is not a perpsective that you will get from the Church, and sorry to say, many Messianic and traditional Jewish congregations in America follow the Greek style of heirarchal teaching.

It's our inclination to want to sit down and expect some scholar to learn ya something. This isn't Biblical. Adonai wants you to wrestle personally with your own convictions, not assume a cookie-cutter theology from someone else. It's okay to take it slow. It's a wonderful experience, embarking on a new journey you have started on your own. It's exciting to suddenly realize that you had been wrong about something that today you see with acute and vibrant clarity. We're talking about your own personal walk in obedience with the Living God, not assuming the cultural status of a Messianic community. Anything less you will find a frustration and inevitably a waste of your time.

Enbrace the confusion... you're in good company!

[dave]

Thank you for your reply Mark. It is very deep and insightful. I can tell that you have been walking down your path with Adonai for a while now. As crazy as it sounds, it makes sense. Let the confusion continue!

[dave]

I also want to add that I appreciate your honesty. You have shown me a different point of view and you didn't sugar coat it. Yet it was very respectful and not in the least bit condescending. I find that these kind of opinions are hard to come by. Thanks again. May Adonai continue to bless you.

Dave