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Jesus Judgement and Yom Kippur

Jesus Judgement and Yom Kippur

JESUS, JUDGEMENT AND YOM KIPPUR
BY JIM STALEY, PASSION FOR TRUTH MINISTRIES

In our previous discussion, we explored the significance of the Rapture and the Feast of Trumpets. Today, we will dive deeper into Yom Kippur, also known as the Day of Atonement or Judgment Day. What do these events have in common, and how do they fit into the grand biblical narrative? Let’s unpack these prophetic themes, building on the Hebraic roots of the Bible.

The Fall Feast Days and Their Prophetic Meaning

Welcome to Passion for Truth Ministries. I’m Jim Staley, and in today’s broadcast, we continue our journey through the Fall Feast Days of the Lord, focusing on their prophetic implications and relevance for us today. If you’ve been following along, you know that we don’t just skim the surface; we delve into the historical, cultural, and linguistic backdrop of the Scriptures. By going back to the first-century context, we aim to understand the original intent of the biblical authors, which often differs from modern interpretations rooted in a Greco-Roman worldview.

If you’re new here, make sure to subscribe to the channel and hit the notification bell to stay updated with our teachings. Now, let’s move on to this week’s focus: Yom Kippur.

The Connection Between Yom Kippur and the Feast of Trumpets

Last week, we discussed how the Feast of Trumpets (Yom Teruah) and the concept of the Rapture fit into the biblical timeline. Yom Kippur occurs 10 days after the Feast of Trumpets, marking what is known as the “Ten Days of Awe.” These ten days lead up to Judgment Day, during which God’s wrath is poured out. Many people mistakenly associate the entire Tribulation with God’s wrath, but as we discussed, this is not the case. The Tribulation is a time of trial and purification, not the outpouring of divine wrath.

Understanding Tribulation and Divine Assistance

Many hold different views on the Rapture, with some believing that believers will be taken away before the Tribulation. However, based on my understanding of Scripture, God’s people will go through the Tribulation, much like the Israelites endured the plagues in Egypt. The Bible teaches that trials fortify our faith, as seen in James 1:2, where believers are instructed to “consider it pure joy” when facing trials.

The Tribulation is a time for refining and purifying God’s people, but it is distinct from the wrath of God, which is reserved for the end of the Great Tribulation. This is where Yom Kippur comes in—it is the day of ultimate judgment.

Yom Kippur: The Biblical Day of Atonement

Yom Kippur is the holiest day in the biblical calendar, and in ancient Israel, it was the one day each year when the High Priest would enter the Holy of Holies. Inside this sacred space, he would offer sacrifices for his own sins and the sins of the entire nation. The process was intense and solemn because the fate of Israel rested on whether God accepted the blood offering.

The word “Kippur” means atonement, signifying the act of purifying or repaying a debt. It was on this day that the people of Israel sought forgiveness and reconciliation with God. Similarly, Christ’s sacrifice mirrors the role of the High Priest, offering his blood for the remission of our sins.

The Two Trumpets: A Key Prophetic Symbol

An intriguing connection exists between Yom Kippur and the sound of the trumpet. In Leviticus 25:9, we read about the trumpet of Jubilee being sounded on Yom Kippur. This trumpet, distinct from the one blown on Yom Teruah, signifies the beginning of Jubilee—a time of debt cancellation and freedom for all. This Jubilee is a prophetic symbol of the ultimate redemption that will occur when Christ returns.

The trumpet at Yom Kippur marks the end of God’s wrath and the beginning of the millennial reign, a period of peace and restoration when we will rule and reign with Christ from Jerusalem.

Reconciliation Through Christ’s Atonement

The primary purpose of Yom Kippur is reconciliation. In Hebrew, “Kippur” means “to repay a debt” or “to purify.” This concept has deep implications not only for our relationship with God but also for our human relationships. Whether in marriage, friendship, or family, we all experience brokenness and need reconciliation. Yom Kippur teaches us that forgiveness and healing come through the blood of Christ.

When conflicts arise, the first step is personal repentance. Instead of seeking to “take blood” from others, we should plead the blood of Christ over our own sins. Jesus himself instructs us in Matthew 7:5 to remove the log from our own eye before addressing the speck in someone else’s. This principle is rooted in the Day of Atonement, where the High Priest sought forgiveness for himself before interceding for the people.

The Veil Torn: Access to God’s Presence

Yom Kippur also points us to the tearing of the veil at Christ’s crucifixion. In Matthew 27:50-51, we read that when Jesus died, the veil in the temple was torn from top to bottom. This veil separated the Holy Place from the Holy of Holies, where God’s presence dwelled. The tearing of the veil symbolized the opening of direct access to God through Christ’s sacrifice.

In ancient Israel, the veil was adorned with images of cherubim, the warrior angels that once guarded the Garden of Eden after Adam and Eve’s expulsion. When the veil was torn, these cherubim were no longer standing guard. The way back to Eden—back to God’s presence—was now open.

Yom Kippur is far more than an ancient ritual; it is a powerful blueprint for understanding God’s plan for reconciliation and redemption. Christ’s role as our High Priest and ultimate atonement has opened the way for us to enter the Holy of Holies and be reconciled with God. The prophetic significance of this day extends beyond personal forgiveness—it points to the final judgment and the restoration of all things.

Let Yom Kippur inspire you to seek reconciliation in your relationships, to live in the forgiveness Christ offers, and to remember that one day, every debt will be paid, and we will stand before our Creator in purity and joy.

The Eternal Perspective: What Really Matters?

Our time on earth—those 70 or so years—may seem all-important now, but in the grand scheme of eternity, it’s temporary and fleeting. Imagine this: within a minute of eternity, everything we did here will fade, like a dream we can’t quite recall. The vacations, the money we made, the way we raised our children—all the things we consider vital today—will hold no meaning. In the grand cosmic picture, only what we did for God’s kingdom will matter. And one sacred time connected to this truth is Yom Kippur.

Yom Kippur: A Lost Tradition in Christianity

Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, plays a significant role in our walk with God, our relationship with others, and in our sanctification. Unfortunately, this holy day has been set aside by much of Christianity, often dismissed as “bondage” or an outdated practice. Yet, it holds profound meaning. This isn’t about legalism; it’s about reconciliation, redemption, and purification—a divine opportunity for reconnection with God.

Satan, ever the deceiver, has twisted this truth, convincing people that Yom Kippur is irrelevant. But in reality, it’s a deeply beautiful day of atonement that aligns us with the Holy of Holies and the redemptive power of Christ’s blood.

The Prophetic Significance of Humility

In ancient Israel, the high priest wore magnificent robes symbolizing authority and royalty, representing the coming Messiah. However, on Yom Kippur, the high priest would set aside his regal garments, entering the Holy of Holies in nothing but a simple white robe. This symbolic act foreshadows the humility of God Himself. Yahweh, the King of Kings, strips Himself of glory to come down in human form—Yeshua, meaning “salvation.”

This act of humility is the very pattern through which we can connect with God. If we want reconciliation with God or with others, we must set aside our pride, symbolized by the “crowns” we wear, and approach God humbly. Just as the high priest disrobed, we too must “derobe” spiritually before God—removing our pride and self-importance to be clothed in the puiity of Christ’s righteousness.

Naked Before God: The Pool of Siloam

Ancient Israelites, before ascending the steps to the temple, would pass through the Pool of Siloam, a one-acre pool where they would disrobe, wash, and emerge wearing a white robe. This was symbolic of shedding their earthly selves before approaching God’s presence. In the same way, Yom Kippur calls us to come before God naked of pride, self-will, and ego.

Rabbi Yehoshua Ashlag, in his teachings, emphasized that God robes and protects those who remain in a state of humility—”the bridal position”—before Him. The moment we take on a “masculine” role of control, God withdraws His protection, allowing us to rely on our strength. But when we humble ourselves and lay our pride aside, God clothes us in His glory. The more we humble ourselves, the more we experience the fruits of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, and self-control.

Yom Kippur: Sacrifice and Redemption

Yom Kippur isn’t just about atonement through personal humility; it’s also about sacrifice and redemption. In ancient times, the high priest would sprinkle blood on the altar seven times, a process that foreshadowed the whipping of Jesus and the shedding of His blood. Just as the priest “whipped” the blood onto the Ark of the Covenant, Jesus was whipped and His blood flowed for our redemption.

On Yom Kippur, two goats were selected: one for the Lord (La Adonai) and one for the scapegoat (La Azazel). The first was sacrificed for the sins of the people, and the second was sent into the wilderness, symbolically carrying away the sins of Israel. Jesus fulfills both roles: He is the sacrifice for our sins and the scapegoat who carries away the sins of the world.

Isaiah 53: The Suffering Servant

Isaiah 53 prophesies the Messiah’s role in this redemptive act. “He was oppressed and afflicted, yet He did not open His mouth; He was led like a lamb to the slaughter.” This passage highlights the suffering and silent endurance of Jesus as He bore the sins of humanity. His death and sacrifice fulfilled the requirements of the Yom Kippur offering, providing ultimate atonement for mankind.

The Call to Afflict Our Souls

Leviticus 16:29 commands that on Yom Kippur, people should “afflict their souls.” What does it mean to “afflict your soul”? Isaiah 58 gives us insight: it refers to fasting—denying our mind, will, and emotions to focus on God. Fasting is a symbolic death, as it denies the body the sustenance it needs to live. In this act, we draw closer to God, allowing our spirit to grow stronger as our flesh weakens.

Jesus Himself modeled this during His 40-day fast in the wilderness, where He was tempted by the devil but emerged victorious. This period of fasting prepared Him for His ministry, setting a powerful example for us. Like Christ, fasting brings us closer to God, purifies our souls, and strengthens us for spiritual warfare.

Testing and Promotion Through Fasting

Trials and temptations are a necessary part of spiritual growth. Even Jesus was tested in the wilderness, led by the Holy Spirit to face temptation. We often view trials as negative, but in reality they are opportunities for growth and promotion. Just as Joseph in the Bible was tested through trials before rising to a position of power, we too are tested before spiritual promotion.

Fasting helps us prepare for these tests, giving us the strength to endure and overcome. As our flesh weakens, our spirit grows stronger, making us more attuned to God’s voice and guidance. Through fasting, we gain the spiritual fortitude to face life’s challenges and emerge victorious, just as Jesus did.

Yom Kippur is a powerful reminder of the need for humility, sacrifice, and spiritual purification. It calls us to strip away our pride, afflict our souls, and draw closer to God through fasting and prayer. In doing so, we align ourselves with the redemptive work of Christ and open ourselves to the transformative power of His presence. Just as the high priest entered the Holy of Holies once a year, we are invited to enter God’s presence daily—clothed in humility and washed in the blood of Christ.

Fasting, Trials, and Spiritual Breakthroughs:
A Call to Deepen Your Faith

In our fast-paced world, we often overlook some of life’s greatest blessings—strength, joy, and energy—that begin to fade when our focus shifts from the material to the spiritual. Fasting is one such practice that many people shy away from, but it holds immense spiritual power. It’s not just about withholding food; it’s about a deep, transformative connection with God. When we fast, we set aside the natural sustenance of life, like food and water, to draw closer to the divine. The Bible tells us that fasting can break strongholds, purify the spirit, and create space for the power of God to work in our lives.

The Power of Fasting: A Biblical Example

Let’s look at a powerful example of fasting in *Matthew 4:1-2*. After Jesus was baptized by John, the Spirit led Him into the wilderness to fast for 40 days. During this time, He was tempted by the devil, but the fasting had prepared Him for the test. Imagine being in His shoes—hungry, physically weak, yet spiritually strong. This is a pivotal moment in Christ’s journey. Before He began His ministry, He first had to endure and pass this trial, demonstrating the transformative power of fasting and prayer. This was the preparation for His ultimate mission.

The challenge of fasting is not just physical; it’s a test of faith. Most of us resist trials, avoiding situations that test us, yet the Bible is filled with stories of God’s people facing and overcoming trials. From Joseph, who rose to second-in-command in Egypt after enduring slavery and prison, to the apostles, who were martyred for their faith, trials are a part of the Christian journey. Christ Himself was led into the wilderness by the Holy Spirit to be tested by the devil. Why? Because trials are often the gateway to promotion in the kingdom of God.

Fasting for Redemption: A Key to Spiritual Growth

Fasting was central to Jesus’ preparation for His ministry, and it should be in ours too. You might find yourself facing a challenge right now—a job opportunity, a difficult relationship, or an internal battle. Biblical culture teaches us to prepare for these moments through fasting and prayer, aligning ourselves with God’s will. Early Christians fasted twice a week, a practice that strengthened their spirit and weakened the flesh, creating a more profound connection with God.

When we fast, we diminish the flesh and allow the spirit to grow stronger. It’s a time of deep reflection and connection with God, much like the Day of Atonement, Yom Kippur. During Yom Kippur, the high priest would enter the Holy of Holies, seeking forgiveness and redemption for the people. In the same way, fasting allows us to approach the throne of God, laying down our pride and seeking His grace.

Fasting to Overcome the Flesh

Fasting is not just for spiritual preparation but also for breaking free from the struggles that hold us back. Whether it’s an addiction, a difficult relationship, or a personal challenge, fasting gives us the spiritual strength to overcome. When we fast, we crucify the flesh and empower the spirit, aligning ourselves with God’s will.

Even Jesus, during His time in the wilderness, fasted to overcome His human flesh. If you’re facing difficulties in your life, whether it’s tension with a spouse or inner turmoil, fasting can be a powerful tool for spiritual breakthrough. When you fast, your prayers for those around you become more potent, your compassion deepens, and your connection to the Spirit intensifies.

The Call to Biblical Fasting

Early Christians fasted regularly, and it wasn’t about legalism or empty ritual—it was about preparing the spirit for life’s battles. We often fall into the habit of reading the Bible without truly engaging in a relationship with God. Fasting breaks this cycle, breathing life into our spiritual walk. It forces us to rely on God for strength, bringing us closer to Him in the process.

Consider the story of David, who fasted after his sin with Bathsheba. Even though his fasting couldn’t save the child, it demonstrated a heart of repentance and humility before God. This is the essence of biblical fasting—not just going without food, but humbling ourselves, seeking God’s face, and realigning our hearts with His will.

A Challenge: Fast for Three Days

I want to challenge you to take the next step in your spiritual journey. For the next three days, I encourage you to fast and pray. Set aside time to seek God’s presence, repent of your sins, and ask Him to reveal areas in your life that need change. As you fast, also take the time to serve others—visit the sick, feed the hungry, and care for the orphans and widows. This is the kind of fast that God honors, as described in *Isaiah 58*.

True fasting isn’t just about abstaining from food. It’s about actively living out the heart of God’s commandments—loving others, serving those in need, and humbling ourselves before Him. In *Matthew 25*, Jesus teaches that when we care for the least of these, we are caring for Him. This is what it means to fast with purpose: to die to ourselves and live for others.

Breakthrough Through Fasting

If you’ve been feeling stuck, trapped in cycles of frustration or defeat, I encourage you to take this challenge seriously. Fasting can break the spiritual yoke that weighs you down, just as *Isaiah 58* promises. The yoke—the burdens that the enemy tries to place on you—will be broken when you engage in true fasting. It’s a practice that can lead to real freedom and lasting change.

So, my friends, let us embrace this challenge together. For the next three days, fast, pray, and serve. Write down your commitment, and let’s Yom Kippur—not just as a day of remembrance, but as an action. Let’s make fasting and prayer a verb, a powerful force that moves mountains and breaks chains.

**Prayer:**

Father, we come before You humbly, asking for Your strength and grace as we commit to this time of fasting and prayer. Break the chains that hold us back and bring us closer to You. May we serve others with the same love and compassion that You have shown us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

If this message has touched your heart, please share it with others. Join us on this journey of fasting and prayer, and let’s experience the breakthrough that comes when we seek God wholeheartedly.

 

Watch full video teaching here: Jesus Judgement & Yom Kippur

Download “The Yom Kippur – Day of Atonement” here:

Jim Staley

About The Author
Jim’s life’s desire is to help believers everywhere draw closer to the Father by understanding the truth of the scriptures from their original cultural context (a Hebraic perspective) and to apply them in faith for today.

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