Bibledoorajar: The Curious Red Heifer

     Following the Korah rebellion, God spent a great deal of time planning for purification from contamination from sin. The sacrifice of the red heifer is curious far more than all the other sacrificial choices (lambs, doves, etc), because it had to be completely perfect. It would give its' life, life blood completely consumed, outside the camp on the Mount of Olives. Two different colored hairs on the animal would disqualify any candidate. Further, it could have never been forced with a yoke, but must give its life without force. Its' ashes would be used in the application against future sins. Nine red heifers were consumed up until the final destruction of the temple.

     These days in Israel, certain Torah compliant Jews are working through the Temple Institute to make ready the implements needed for use in the rebuilding of the Temple. Many believe that this will be needed when the Messiah comes. They are also in search of perfect red heifers because they believe one will be used after His arrival to purify the contaminated peoples (including the Gentiles as in the Old Testament times--see Numbers 19). They are very excited now that President Trump has decreed and moved the American Embassy to Jerusalem.  They see this as a sign that the rebuilding of the temple is coming true, no matter how slowly. Their thoughts have turned away from destruction to renewal and rebirth. This thinking has been increasing since their history turned on Wednesday June 7, 1967 when Jerusalem was recaptured. This, they see as their great destiny their Messiah walks in their midst, a light to the nations.

      But there is another view among Jews who have recognized Jesus as their Messiah and Savior. He, the perfect unblemished sacrifice, died outside the camp. He shed His blood for a once and for all cure from the contamination of sin. Living in the hearts of His people, He already walks as a light among the nations. It was His death that turned history. All believers read Hebrews 9:14 with the realization of His perfect sacrifice that leads to perfect purification.

"....just think how much more the blood of Christ will purify our consciences from sinful deeds so that we can worship the living God. For by the power of the eternal Spirit, Christ offered himself to God as a perfect sacrifice for our sins."

The Jews may be looking at June 7, 2018 historically one way, but I say it is a day to praise God for Jesus who sheds forth the light of HIStory.