The purpose of this Sermon Library is to support your spiritual growth as you revisit, reflect and meditate on the sermon topic, and study the Scriptures.

In each tab of the Study Guide, you will find information that will help you increase your understanding and knowledge of Yahweh’s Word and gain deeper insight into the Biblical topic covered.

You can engage in this study on your own or with a group.

It is our hope that these tools provide you with meaningful activities to help you on your walk, as you engage in them during the week and in days leading up to a Feast.

2 Timothy 2:15 – Study to shew thyself approved unto Elohim, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

Study Guide
Summary – Read and reread to help you remember the answer to the question, “What was this sermon about?” so that you can deepen your understanding on this topic and can learn what to say in order to easily share this with others.

Points and Scriptures – Compare these to your notes. If needed, add the key points and Scriptures to your notes, for further review. Turn to each Scripture passage and read it. You may want to keep a notebook or journal, with Scripture Lists by topic. Scriptures that say (alluded to) next to it were included in content of the message (ex. appeared on a slide) without the Scripture itself being read.

Discussion Questions – Read one at a time, writing the answers down in your notebook or journal. Use your notes, as well as the information in the Points & Scriptures tab, to help you answer the questions.

Small Group Guide – We recommend that you engage in this activity during the week with a group of brethren, family members and/or friends.

Devotional – We recommend that you engage in these activities during the week and/or in days leading up to the Feast.

Key Points:

• The Zadok calendar is based on the non-canonical Book of Jubilees
• The biblical calendar uses the new moon crescent to start months
• Abib (ripening barley) is crucial for determining the start of the biblical year
• The equinox is not mentioned in Scripture as a calendar marker
• Agriculture played a significant role in Israel’s calendar and feasts
• Historical Jewish sources confirm the use of barley and new moons
• The Zadok calendar was used by a minority group (Essenes) and not the general populace

  Here are the scripture references mentioned or alluded to in the sermon:

  1. Genesis 1:14
  2. Exodus 9:31
  3. Exodus 12:1-2
  4. Exodus 34:22
  5. Deuteronomy 16:1
  6. 1 Samuel 1:20
  7. 1 Samuel 20:5 (alluded to, not directly quoted)
  8. 2 Chronicles 24:23
  9. Psalms 19:6
  10. Psalms 104:19
  11. Isaiah 66:23
  12. Ezekiel 46:1

  The sermon also discusses general biblical themes related to the calendar, feasts, and agricultural cycles. Some additional relevant verses that align with these themes, though not specifically mentioned, could include:

  13. Leviticus 23 (overview of biblical feasts)
  14. Numbers 28:16 (Passover timing)
  15. Deuteronomy 16:9-10 (Feast of Weeks/Pentecost)
  16. Leviticus 23:39-43 (Feast of Tabernacles)
  17. Nehemiah 8:14-15 (Observance of Feast of Tabernacles)
  18. Colossians 2:16-17 (New Testament perspective on feasts and new moons)

  The sermon also mentions the Book of Jubilees and the Book of Enoch, which are not part of the canonical Bible but are referenced in discussing alternative calendar systems.

How might our understanding of biblical timekeeping change if we view ancient Israel primarily as an agricultural society? What implications does this have for modern observance of holy days?

What are the potential spiritual and practical consequences of relying on non-canonical texts like the Book of Jubilees for calendar-related doctrines?

How does the concept of observing natural phenomena (like barley ripeness and new moon sightings) align with or challenge our modern, technologically-driven approach to timekeeping?

In what ways might the debate over calendar systems reflect deeper theological or philosophical differences within faith communities?

How does the historical evolution of the Jewish calendar, from observation to calculation, parallel changes in religious practice and understanding over time?

What spiritual lessons can we draw from the emphasis on agricultural cycles in biblical timekeeping, particularly in our increasingly urbanized world?

How might our interpretation of Genesis 1:14 change if we consider it in light of ancient Near Eastern agricultural practices rather than modern astronomical knowledge?

What are the potential benefits and drawbacks of adopting a calendar system that is disconnected from lunar cycles, as seen in the Zadok calendar?

How does the concept of waiting for the barley to ripen before beginning the year reflect Yahweh’s timing in our spiritual lives?

In what ways does the debate over calendar systems challenge or reinforce our understanding of biblical authority and interpretation?

Key Takeaways:

1. The Zadok calendar is based on the non-canonical Book of Jubilees, not Scripture.
2. The Biblical calendar is based on observation of the new moon crescent and the ripening of barley.
3. Agriculture plays a crucial role in understanding Biblical time-keeping and feast days.
4. The equinox is not mentioned in Scripture as a basis for determining the start of the year.

Discussion Questions:

1. Why is it important to critically examine the sources and foundations of calendar systems we might use?

2. How does understanding Israel as an agricultural nation impact our interpretation of Biblical feasts and time-keeping?

3. What are the potential issues with relying on non-canonical texts like the Book of Jubilees for establishing doctrines or practices?

4. How does the use of barley to determine the start of the year connect to the Omer offering and Feast of Unleavened Bread?

5. Why do you think the sermon emphasizes the importance of observation (new moon, barley) rather than calculation in determining the Biblical calendar?

6. How might our modern disconnect from agricultural cycles affect our understanding of Biblical time-keeping?

Practical Applications:

1. Research: Spend some time this week learning about the agricultural cycles of barley and other crops mentioned in the Bible. How does this knowledge enhance your understanding of Scripture?

2. Observation: Try to spot the new moon crescent this month. Reflect on how this observable phenomenon connects to Biblical time-keeping.

3. Scripture Study: Read Exodus 9:31 and 12:2 in context. Discuss how these passages provide evidence for the Biblical calendar system.

4. Critical Thinking: The next time you encounter a teaching based on non-canonical texts, practice evaluating it critically using Biblical standards.

5. Cultural Connection: Consider how understanding ancient Israelite agricultural practices might deepen your appreciation for the Biblical feasts and their timing.

Closing Reflection: How does a deeper understanding of Biblical time-keeping impact your faith and practice? Are there areas where you might need to re-evaluate your current beliefs or practices based on this information?

Day 1: Yahweh’s Timeless Calendar
Reading: Exodus 12:1-2, Deuteronomy 16:1

Devotional: Just as Yahweh established a specific time for the Israelites to begin their year, He has perfect timing for every aspect of our lives. The Hebrew word “Abib” reminds us that Yahweh’s timing often aligns with seasons of growth and new beginnings. Reflect on areas in your life where you may be rushing ahead or lagging behind Yahweh’s perfect timing. Ask for wisdom to discern His timing and patience to wait on His perfect plan. How can you better align your life’s “calendar” with Yahweh’s schedule?

Day 2: Observing Yahweh’s Signs
Reading: Genesis 1:14-19, Psalm 104:19

Devotional: Yahweh created the sun, moon, and stars not just for light, but as signs to mark seasons and times. In our modern world, it’s easy to lose touch with these natural rhythms Yahweh established. Take time today to observe the sky, noting the sun’s position or the phase of the moon. Consider how these celestial bodies faithfully follow Yahweh’s ordained patterns. How might paying closer attention to Yahweh’s natural “signs” deepen your faith and remind you of His constancy? Reflect on other “signs” Yahweh may be using in your life to guide you closer to Him.

Day 3: The First Fruits of Faith
Reading: Leviticus 23:9-14, 1 Corinthians 15:20-23

Devotional: The Omer offering of first fruits in ancient Israel foreshadowed Yahshua the Messiah as the “first fruits” of resurrection. Just as the Israelites trusted Yahweh by offering their first and best, we too are called to offer the first and best of ourselves to Yahweh. What areas of your life are you holding back from Yahweh? How can you cultivate a “first fruits” mentality in your time, talents, and resources? Pray for a heart that eagerly gives Yahweh your best, trusting in His provision and grace.

Day 4: Seasons of Spiritual Growth
Reading: Ecclesiastes 3:1-8, Galatians 6:9

Devotional: Like the agricultural cycles that governed Israel’s calendar, our spiritual lives also have seasons. There are times of planting, growing, harvesting, and even lying fallow. Reflect on your current spiritual season. Are you in a time of rapid growth, patient waiting, or abundant harvest? How can you embrace this season and allow Yahweh to work in you? Remember that even in seemingly unproductive seasons, Yahweh is preparing the soil of your heart for future growth.

Day 5: Aligning with Yahweh’s Will
Reading: Romans 12:1-2, James 4:13-15

Devotional: The debate over calendars reminds us of the human tendency to create our own systems and plans. Yet Yahweh calls us to align our lives with His perfect will. This requires humility and a willingness to adjust our plans to His. Reflect on areas where you may be stubbornly clinging to your own “calendar” or way of doing things. How can you cultivate a heart that is more responsive and obedient to Yahweh’s leading? Pray for discernment to recognize Yahweh’s will and courage to follow it, even when it differs from your own plans or cultural norms.