There are, you will agree, many, many principles to learn and implement in the Gospel but how do we prioretise them? What might be said to be essential in every and any circumstance? For example, if you were a prisoner in some communist forced labour camp, you would probably be unable to observe sabbath or any of the festivals. In such circumstances you would still, however, be able to live the Gospel. Given that such times as believers being imprisoned for their faith are coming (and have already come to such places as China and in other totalitarian lands), we ought perhaps to consider carefully what our priorities really are. I think, as you will see, that in such a situation we would become much more 'evangelical' than 'messianic'.

I want to suggest that there are five essential priorities which we can live out under all circumstances and that they are very, very simple indeed because all require a childlike attitude and can thrive only in our personal weakness - you need:

1. Prayer and Sharing the Gospel

"Then the twelve summoned the multitude of the disciples and said, 'It is not desirable that we should leave the word of Elohik (God) and serve tables. Therefore, brethren, seek out from among you seven men of good reputation, full of the Ruach haQodesh (Holy Spirit) and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business; but we will give ourselves continually to prayer and to the ministry of the word" (Acts 6:1-4, NKJV).

"Do not neglect the gift that is in you, which was given to you by prophecy with the laying on of the hands..." (1 Tim 4:14, NKJV).

"How shall we escape if we neglect so great a salvation, which at the first began to be spoken by the Master (Lord), and was confirmed to us by those who heard Him" (Heb 2:3, NKJV).

"Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some have unwittingly entertained angels" (Heb.13:2, NKJV).

"Do not forget to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices Elohim (God) is well pleased" (Heb.13:16, NKJV).

Comments from Readers

[1] "Again, thanks for re-posting. I am praising Yah for His faithfulness and for your pbedience Pastor Chris. I had an exact question about priorities especially in the coming tribulation, and sure enough, I check this [Facebook] wall daily and I get answers!" (MM, USA, 14 December 2015)