Hebrew Roots is a teaching ministry dedicated to exploring the Hebraic roots of the Christian Faith. It began in the spring of 1996 when Dean & Susan Wheelock (husband and wife) felt a need to communicate to their friends and relatives what they had been learning about their Savior Y'shua HaMashiach (Yah-shoe'-ah Hah Mah-shee'-akh = Hebrew for 'Jesus the Messiah'). Since that time this Mom and Pop Ministry has grown to include Subscribers from around the world as well as a significant number of incarcerated Believers.
Much of the teaching taking place in the Christian Community today ignores the fact that Y'shua is not only our promised Savior, He was also a first century Jew. He was reared in the Jewish lifestyle of that day, as were nearly all of those with whom He came in contact.
Many believe that the Apostle Paul did away with all the "Jewishness" of the Old Testament and began a new religion (called Christianity) based totally on the New Testament. Nothing could be further from the truth, for near the end of his ministry Paul stated very clearly that he still considered himself to be a member of the sect of the Pharisees:
"But when Paul perceived that one part were Sadducees and the other Pharisees, he cried out in the council, 'Men and brethren, I am a Pharisee, the son of a Pharisee; ... '" (Acts 23:6)
It is our belief that as we learn to study the Scriptures more effectively our differences in interpretation will begin to disappear. Remember what the Apostle Paul wrote:
"For now we see in a mirror, dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part, but then I shall know just as I also am known." (I Corinthians 13:12)
Let us all learn to respect the honest convictions of our brethren and not be so quick to condemn those who have a different understanding. There is so much yet to learn, so much growing that must take place before our Messiah returns. Indeed, we will never arrive at all of the truth as long as we are clothed in mortality. Although we do have the earnest payment of the Holy Spirit, we still see through the eyes of human flesh. Let us therefore commit to doing the following:
"... grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Y'shua HaMashiach." (II Peter 3:18)
"Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth."(II Timothy 2:15 KJV)
"... receive(d) the word with all readiness, and search(ed) the Scriptures daily to find out whether these things were [are] so." (Acts 17:11)
Each of us comes to faith with our own individual perspectives based on our unique life experiences and training. It is as though we each see God and the Scriptures through our own small window. The problem is that our window may only overlook one side of the entire scene. It is the goal of Hebrew Roots ® to make this small window through which you may be looking more like a picture window, so that you will be able to see the Scriptures in a more complete way.
It is not always easy to face the challenge of new ideas. One must proceed with caution and not run off with each new idea as though it came directly from the mouth of God. Therefore, we encourage you to test all teachings against the pure word of the Scriptures:
"Prove all things; hold fast that which is good." (I Thessalonians 5:21)
One word of warning. If anyone comes teaching 'another gospel' than the Good News of the coming Kingdom of God under the Kingship of Y'shua, or if their words are those of anger or hatred against others, beware! This is not to say that all teaching that seems to be done in love is necessarily correct. We must draw close to God through diligent study of His Word, accompanied by fervent prayer, so that we will be able to discern truth from error. In the past many have been, and even now are being led astray by following individuals and accepting everything they teach as though it comes directly from the mouth of God. A word of advice: If you must choose between studying the Scriptures and studying other material (including this Website), we encourage you to choose the Scriptures every time.
It is our hope that you will find the Hebrew Roots Website helpful in your spiritual walk. You are welcome to copy and distribute our material, provided you include all of our contact information (see below) so that those receiving it may contact us if they so desire. If you wish to contribute to this digital ministry, you may do so using either PayPal, which is provided on our Donate page, or you may send a check or money order payable in US funds to Hebrew Roots PO Box 611050, Port Huron, MI 48061.
"The fear of the LORD [YHVH] is the beginning of wisdom; A good understanding have all those who do His commandments. His praise endures forever." (Psalm 111:10)
May the peace of God be with you always,
Dean & Susan Wheelock
Hebrew Roots ®